The Impact of CFCs on Ozone and Human Health

Ozone is a form of oxygen with three atoms, found mainly in the upper atmosphere. It absorbs harmful UV rays, protecting life on Earth. Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), used in refrigerants and insulation, threaten the ozone layer. CFCs release chlorine atoms that destroy ozone molecules, with one chlorine atom capable of destroying up to 100,000 ozone molecules.

What is the main difference between an ozone molecule and an ordinary oxygen molecule?

• Ozone has two oxygen atoms, while ordinary oxygen has three.

• Ozone is found only on Earth, while ordinary oxygen is found in space.

• Ozone has three oxygen atoms, while ordinary oxygen has two.

• Ozone is a gas, while ordinary oxygen is a liquid.

What is the primary function of ozone in the upper atmosphere?

• To reflect sunlight back into space.

• To absorb the Sun's harmful ultraviolet rays.

• To create a greenhouse effect.

• To provide oxygen for breathing.

What health issues can result from the Sun's ultraviolet rays if not absorbed by ozone?

• Heart disease.

• Diabetes.

• Skin cancer and other health problems.

• Respiratory infections.

What are chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) primarily used for?

• To purify water.

• To make plastic foam insulation and as refrigerants.

• As a fuel for vehicles.

• As a food preservative.

How do CFCs pose a threat to the ozone layer?

• By directly absorbing ultraviolet rays.

• By releasing chlorine atoms that destroy ozone molecules.

• By blocking sunlight from reaching the Earth.

• By increasing the Earth's temperature.

What happens when a chlorine atom reacts with an ozone molecule?

• It causes the ozone molecule to split into three separate oxygen atoms.

• It forms a new ozone molecule.

• It creates a molecule of chlorine monoxide and an ordinary oxygen molecule.

• It releases oxygen gas into the atmosphere.

How many ozone molecules can a single chlorine atom potentially destroy?

• 1,000

• 100,000

• 10

• 10,000