What is the molecular formula for ozone?

The molecular formula for ozone is represented by the symbol ( O_3 ), indicating that each molecule of ozone consists of three oxygen atoms. Ozone is a triatomic molecule, which is significant because it plays an essential role in the Earth's stratosphere, helping to absorb harmful ultraviolet radiation from the sun. The ( O_2 ) option represents dioxygen, which is the more common form of oxygen we breathe and consists of two oxygen atoms. The ( O_4 ) and ( O_5 ) options suggest configurations that do not occur under normal conditions and are not stable, as ozone is specifically characterized by its distinct structure of three oxygen atoms. Thus, the correct answer, ( O_3 ), accurately reflects the molecular composition of ozone.