EDUCATION (CBSE/UGC NET)

Detailed explanation-1: -One chlorine atom can destroy over 100, 000 ozone molecules before it is removed from the stratosphere. Ozone can be destroyed more quickly than it is naturally created. Some compounds release chlorine or bromine when they are exposed to intense UV light in the stratosphere.

Detailed explanation-2: -The chlorine pulls the oxygen atom away, leaving behind an O2 molecule, which provides no UV protection. The chlorine then releases the oxygen atom and moves on to destroy another ozone molecule. One CFC molecule can destroy as many as 100, 000 ozone molecules.

Detailed explanation-3: -Chemistry of Ozone Depletion Chlorine is able to destroy so much of the ozone because it acts as a catalyst. Chlorine initiates the breakdown of ozone and combines with a freed oxygen to create two oxygen molecules. After each reaction, chlorine begins the destructive cycle again with another ozone molecule.

Detailed explanation-4: -This very efficient process can repeat up to 100, 000 times. So, in effect, one chlorine atom has the capability of destroying up to 100, 000 ozone molecules. Many other substances involved in ozone depletion have both natural and manmade sources.

Detailed explanation-5: -The most prominent reactions are the HOx, NOx, and Cl radical chain reactions: These reactions are termed chain reactions because the ozone-destroying radical (e.g. HO) is regenerated by combination with an oxygen radical. One chlorine radical can destroy many ozone molecules in its lifetime.