Final answer:
Ozone molecules in the stratosphere are destroyed by chlorine atoms according to the Roland-Molina theory, a process that severely impacts the ozone layer's ability to absorb UV radiation. Increased UV exposure can lead to significant environmental and health issues.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to the Roland-Molina theory, ozone molecules are destroyed by each chlorine atom in the stratosphere. Chlorine atoms, often released from human-made chemicals like chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), engage in chemical reactions that deplete the ozone (O3) layer. These reactions occur as follows: a chlorine atom reacts with an ozone molecule to form chlorine monoxide (ClO) and oxygen (O2), and then the ClO can react with another oxygen atom to regenerate the chlorine atom, which can then go on to destroy more ozone molecules.
This cycle can continue over an extensive period, allowing a single chlorine atom to destroy thousands of ozone molecules. The depletion of ozone molecules means they are no longer able to absorb harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation, leading to increased UV exposure at Earth's surface. To curb this destruction, international efforts have reduced the use of CFCs, which has led to a decrease in the amount of atmospheric chlorine and a gradual recovery of the ozone layer.