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Environment Question.
Define Ozone Depletion and its causes.
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2 Replies
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The thinning of the ozone layer in the upper atmosphere is known as ozone layer depletion. This occurs when ozone molecules come into contact with and are destroyed by atoms of chlorine and bromine found in the atmosphere. it degrades faster than it is produced.
Causes of Ozone Depletion:
Chlorofluorocarbons
Chlorofluorocarbons or CFCs are the main cause of ozone layer depletion. These are released by solvents, spray aerosols, refrigerators, etc.
Unregulated Rocket Launches
The unregulated launching of rockets results in much more depletion of the ozone layer than the CFCs do. If not controlled, this might result in a huge loss of the ozone layer by the 2050.
Nitrogenous Compounds
Nitrogenous compounds such as NO<sub>2</sub>, NO, and N<sub>2</sub>O are highly responsible for the depletion of the ozone layer.
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The term “ozone depletion” describes the slow weakening of the stratosphere’s ozone layer, which serves as a protective layer of ozone gas. This layer protects life on Earth from the sun’s damaging ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Human activities, particularly the usage of certain synthetic compounds like CFCs, halons, and other ozone-depleting substances, contribute greatly to the depletion. When these compounds are discharged into the atmosphere, they break down ozone molecules, causing holes or depleting the ozone layer. The increased UV radiation causes a variety of threats to human health, ecosystems, and the environment, making it critical to manage and control the usage of these hazardous chemicals.
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