Final answer:
Ammonia (NH₃) causes the least damage to the ozone layer compared to CFCs, HCFCs, and HFCs because it does not contain any chlorine or bromine atoms that can deplete ozone (Option D).
Step-by-step explanation:
Among the refrigerants listed, ammonia (NH₃) causes the least amount of damage to the ozone layer. Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) have been widely used in the past, but they contribute significantly to ozone depletion because they release chlorine atoms that can destroy ozone molecules.
Alternative refrigerants like hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) and hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) have been developed to replace CFCs, as they have less impact on the ozone layer. HCFCs still contain chlorine but break down more readily in the troposphere, reducing the number of ozone-destroying molecules that reach the stratosphere. HFCs, on the other hand, do not contain chlorine or bromine, eliminating their potential to harm the ozone layer. However, ammonia (NH₃), which is not a halogenated compound, does not affect the ozone layer and thus represents the best option in terms of ozone safety.
Thus, the correct option is D.