Chapter 1, Problem 29A

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The reason for thinning of ozone layer needs to be explained.

Concept introduction:

Ozone is a substance made up of oxygen and is present in the atmosphere responsible for absorbing some of the harmful radiations before they reach earth’s surface. It is located in the stratosphere.

Answer to Problem 29A

In increased amount of chlorofluorocarbon in the atmosphere is reason for the ozone layer depletion.

Explanation of Solution

When oxygen gas $(O_2)$ is exposed to ultraviolet radiation in the upper regions of the stratosphere, ozone $(O_3)$ is formed. Molecules of oxygen gas are made of two smaller oxygen particles. The energy of the radiation breaks the oxygen gas into individual oxygen particles (O), which then interact with $O_2$ to form $O_3$.

When the scientists noticed that the ozone layer was thinning, they noticed that the amount of chlorofluorocarbon is increased in the atmosphere. Since, chlorofluorocarbon is a non-toxic, stable gas; scientists were unalarmed about the issue.

Conclusion

Thus, when the ozone layer starts depleting, scientists observed increased level of chlorofluorocarbons in the atmosphere.