Question

Jenny is learning about the importance of the ozone layer. She was upset to know that there is a depletion of the ozone layer and human activities are adding to it. While she decides to spread awareness on the effects of pollution and reasons to curb it, she cannot do anything about the natural process of ozone depletion. What is the natural process that is causing the depletion of the ozone layer? A. one that ensures ecological balance B. burning of fossil fuel C. UV rays reacting with the O2 molecules D. carbon cycle E. oxygen cycle

Answer 1

Answer: UV rays reacting with the O2 molecules (Option C)  

Explanation:  

Ozone in the earth's stratosphere is created by UV light striking oxygen molecules containing two oxygen atoms, splitting them into individual oxygen atoms called atomic oxygen. Then atomic oxygen combines with unbroken O2 to create ozone (O3). The ozone molecule is unstable and when UV light hits ozone, they again split into the molecule of O2 and an individual atom of oxygen.

The causes of ozone depletion also include:  

Human activity such as the release of various compounds containing CFC’s is a major cause of ozone damage. CFC is the most evident and the most destructive molecule.  

Natural sources also contributes to the depletion of the ozone layer.

During large volcanic eruptions, chlorine as a component of HCL is released directly into the stratosphere, along with sulfur dioxide.