What is causing the depletion of the ozone layer?

There are a few main causes of ozone layer depletion. They are; CFC's (chloro-fluoro-carbons), halons, and tetra chloride, but the biggest one would definitly be CFC's.

Answer:

Manmade chemicals like chlorofluorocarbons, bromofluorocarbons and oxides of nitrogen are the main depleters of ozone layer. There is evidence that bromides and chlorides from ocean spray can contribute to the depletion of the ozone as well as the Chloro- and Bromo- fluorocarbons. It is thought that these levels have been constant and the "normal" ozone levels are in balance with this natural depletion. The simplified reactions are:

CFCl₃ + hν → CFCl₂ + Cl

Cl + O₃ → ClO + O₂

ClO + O₃ → Cl + 2 O

Chlorofluorocarbons undergo dissociation in the presence of sunlight to produce a chlorine ion molecule. This molecule combines with ozone to reduce it to oxygen and a ClO molecule.

The ClO attacks another Ozone molecule producing atomic oxygen and a chloride ion. The recreation of the Cl ion and the reactive ClO lets the chlorine reform and participate through many cycles.

Only ozone can absorb UV radiation which is very very harmful for all the living organisms at elevated levels. Potential impacts are death to algae, diseases and cancer.

First answer by ID1279722334. Last edit by ID1279722334. Question popularity: 8 [recommend question]