Question

Ozone depletion occurs when chlorofluorocarbons (cfcs) and halons—gases formerly found in aerosol spray cans and refrigerants—are released into the atmosphere in simple words.

a. True
b. False

Answer 1

It is true that CFCs and halons released into the atmosphere contribute to ozone depletion by releasing chlorine atoms that destroy ozone molecules in the stratosphere. Efforts like the Montreal Protocol have reduced CFC use, aiding in ozone layer recovery.

Step-by-step explanation:

The statement that ozone depletion occurs when chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and halons, which were once present as aerosol propellants in spray cans and as refrigerants, are released into the atmosphere, is true. The ozone layer, which is critical in protecting Earth from harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation, is negatively affected by these chemicals. When CFCs are broken down by UV light, they release atomic chlorine, which reacts with ozone (O3) in the stratosphere, thus depleting it. This chemical kinetics process is grave because a single chlorine atom can continue to destroy ozone molecules for up to two years until it is removed from the stratosphere. Global efforts, such as the Montreal Protocol, have been successful in reducing the use of CFCs and consequently, the size of the ozone hole has begun to decrease.