Question

What is ozone? What is its function in the environment? What emissions from human activities lead to ozone depletion?

Answer 1

• Ozone is the inorganic molecule and is an unstable molecule of oxygen. Its composition is C${}_3$ also called as trioxygen. They are formed in the outer layer of the atmosphere with the help of the reaction of free oxygen with an oxygen molecule.
• Their main function is to protect the earth from the rays of the sun as well as from the ultraviolet radiation. They are also helpful in lowering atmospheric temperature and thus results in the decrease of global warming.
• Due to the increased use of refrigerators and air conditioners, the release of chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) is increased. This CFC gas when goes into the atmosphere breaks and releases one chlorine atom. This chlorine atom is responsible for the destruction of the ozone layer. The continuous depletion of ozone has raised a hole known as the ozone hole and this process is called called ozone depletion.