Stratospheric Ozone Depletion

Front

What are CFCs and where are they commonly found?

Back

CFCs (Chlorofluorocarbons) are man-made compounds used in spray cans, refrigeration, and insulation. They contribute to ozone depletion.

Front

What is the location of the largest hole in the ozone layer?

Back

The largest hole in the ozone layer is located over Antarctica.

Front

What is the stratosphere?

Back

The stratosphere is the second layer of the atmosphere, extending about 17-48 kilometers above the Earth's surface, containing the ozone layer that filters harmful UV radiation.

Front

What are the ecological consequences of reduced stratospheric ozone?

Back

Ecological consequences include loss of biodiversity, collapse of marine food webs, and reduced terrestrial biome productivity.

Front

How many ozone molecules can a single chlorine atom break down?

Back

A single chlorine atom can break down up to 100,000 ozone molecules.

Front

What is ozone and why is it important?

Back

Ozone is a molecule composed of three oxygen atoms (O3) that protects life on Earth by absorbing the majority of the sun's harmful ultraviolet radiation.

Front

What are the main sources of CFC emissions?

Back

Main sources of CFC emissions include aerosol spray cans, refrigeration systems, and foam-blowing agents.

Front

What is the role of the ozone layer?

Back

The ozone layer protects living organisms by absorbing 95% of the sun's harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation.

Front

What are the effects of increased UV radiation on human health?

Back

Increased UV radiation can lead to higher rates of skin cancer, cataracts, and weakened immune systems.

Front

What international agreement was established to protect the ozone layer?

Back

The Montreal Protocol, established in 1987, aims to phase out the production and consumption of ozone-depleting substances.