Chapter 20, Problem 11TE

To determine

The activity and the action of chlorofluorocarbons in the ozone depletion process.

Answer to Problem 11TE

The ozone layer act as a protective envelope and could not be replaced also this is not a lasting solution of ozone depletion.

Explanation of Solution

The ozone molecule is a molecule made up of three oxygen atoms. The Earth’s outer layers are composed of an ozone molecule. More specifically the stratosphere layer at the upper atmosphere and the troposphere at the lower atmosphere is composed of the ozone molecule. They make the protective covering of the Earth’s atmosphere. The ozone depletion in the stratosphere region results in the increase in the amount of the UV light emerging on the Earth’s surface which had an adverse effect on human beings.

The ozone molecule constituting three oxygen atoms are highly reactive in nature and can decompose with some radical species or atoms reaching the ozone layer. These radical species or atoms act as a catalyst in the process of decomposition or destruction of atmospheric ozone.

The CFC’s released from the refrigerator generates the chlorine atoms that are highly reactive and easily approach the ozone layer for the destruction process. These chlorine radicals or atoms act as a catalyst in the conversion of ozone into oxygen resulting in the accumulation of chlorine in the stratosphere region.

Hence, replacing the ozone layer or fractions could not be a lasting solution of ozone depletion.

Conclusion:

As the ozone layer act as a protective envelope, it could not be replaced and therefore this is not a lasting solution of ozone depletion.