Which of the following substances causes the depletion of the ozone layer in the atmosphere?
Answer Details
Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) cause depletion of the ozone layer in the atmosphere. CFCs are organic compounds that contain chlorine, fluorine, and carbon. When CFCs are released into the atmosphere, they rise up to the stratosphere, where they are broken down by ultraviolet radiation from the sun. This breakdown releases chlorine atoms, which react with ozone molecules to form oxygen gas and chlorine monoxide. Chlorine monoxide then reacts with another ozone molecule to form more oxygen gas and another chlorine atom. This cycle continues, with each chlorine atom destroying many thousands of ozone molecules. The reduction of the ozone layer can lead to increased levels of harmful ultraviolet radiation reaching the Earth's surface, which can have negative effects on human health and the environment.