Question

Supersonic jets cause pollution by thinning of

• A. O${}_3$ layer
• B. SO${}_2$ layer
• C. O${}_2$ layer
• D. CO${}_2$ layer

Answer 1

The correct option is A O${}_3$ layer

90% of naturally occurring atmospheric ozone occurs in the stratosphere. Stratospheric ozone is very important, it removes almost all incoming UVA, and 70% of the incoming UVB at equator, 90% at poles. All aircraft produce water, CO${}_2$, CO etc. in exhaust gases. Most commercial flights are confined to the troposphere, but high-level supersonic aircraft inject pollutants into the stratosphere, which leads to the thinning of the ozone layer. Of these nitrogen oxides are especially harmful.

Thus, the correct answer is option A.