Question

Which one of the following is held responsible for the depletion of earth's ozone layer?

• A. Carbon dioxide
• B. Ethane
• C. Sulphuric acid
• D. Chlorofluorocarbons

Answer 1

The correct option is D Chlorofluorocarbons

The Ozone layer or ozone shield is a region of Earth's stratosphere that absorbs most of the sun's ultraviolet radiation and it's breakdown is called ozone depletion. The main cause of ozone depletion and the ozone hole is manufactured chemicals, especially manufactured halocarbon refrigerants, solvents, propellants and foam-blowing agents (chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), HCFCs, halons), referred to as ozone-depleting substances (ODS). These compounds are transported into the stratosphere by the winds after being emitted from the surface. Once in the stratosphere, they release halogen atoms through photodissociation, which catalyze the breakdown of ozone (O${}_3$) into oxygen (O${}_2$).

So the correct option is 'chlorofluorocarbons'.