The pollutant that contributes to the depletion of the ozone layer is
Answer Details
The pollutant that contributes to the depletion of the ozone layer is CFCs, which stands for Chlorofluorocarbons.
CFCs are a class of chemical compounds that contain chlorine, fluorine, and carbon atoms. They were widely used in aerosol sprays, refrigerants, and other industrial applications because they are stable, non-toxic, and nonflammable. However, CFCs are also very stable in the atmosphere and can remain there for many years without being broken down.
When CFCs are released into the atmosphere, they eventually reach the stratosphere, where they are broken down by ultraviolet radiation from the sun. This process releases chlorine atoms, which then react with ozone molecules, breaking them apart and depleting the ozone layer. The ozone layer is important because it protects life on Earth from harmful UV radiation from the sun.
The depletion of the ozone layer leads to increased UV radiation reaching the Earth's surface, which can cause skin cancer, cataracts, and other health problems in humans, as well as damage to crops and marine organisms.
NO2, SO2, and CO are not ozone-depleting pollutants. NO2 (nitrogen dioxide) is a common air pollutant that can cause respiratory problems and acid rain. SO2 (sulfur dioxide) is another air pollutant that is produced by burning fossil fuels and can cause respiratory problems and acid rain. CO (carbon monoxide) is a colorless, odorless gas that is produced by incomplete combustion and can be deadly in high concentrations.