Question

In Antarctica, ozone depletion is due to the formation of compound. (a) \(\mathrm{SO}_{2}\) and \(\mathrm{SO}_{3}\) (b) chlorine nitrate (c) acrolein (d) (d) formaldehyde

Short answer

Chlorine nitrate is associated with ozone depletion in Antarctica.

Step-by-step solution

Understand Ozone Depletion

Ozone depletion refers to the thinning of the ozone layer due to chemical reactions that destroy ozone molecules. In Antarctica, this phenomenon is largely because of man-made chemicals that release chlorine and bromine when broken down by UV light.

Identify Compounds Associated with Ozone Depletion

The primary compounds responsible for ozone depletion are chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), which contain chlorine atoms. When these compounds reach the stratosphere, they release chlorine that reacts with ozone (O₃), leading to its depletion.

Evaluate the Given Options

Given the options are: (a) \(\mathrm{SO}_{2}\) and \(\mathrm{SO}_{3}\), (b) chlorine nitrate, (c) acrolein, and (d) formaldehyde. Sulfur oxides (\(\mathrm{SO}_{2}\) and \(\mathrm{SO}_{3}\)) and carbon compounds like acrolein and formaldehyde are not known for ozone depletion. Chlorine nitrate, however, is a reservoir of chlorine, which can contribute to ozone breakdown.

Conclusion Based on Analysis

From the evaluation, chlorine nitrate is associated with ozone depletion processes, as it contains chlorine which is released into the upper atmosphere, contributing to the degradation of ozone molecules.

Key concepts

Antarctica

Antarctica plays a crucial role in the global ecosystem, but it's also a focal point for environmental studies due to its unique climate and atmospheric conditions. The geography of Antarctica contributes to it being a hotspot for ozone depletion. During its long winters, the darkness leads to extremely low temperatures, which causes the formation of polar stratospheric clouds. These clouds provide a surface for chemical reactions, including those that involve compounds that deplete ozone. This makes Antarctica particularly vulnerable to ozone layer thinning, especially during the spring. It's fascinating that such an isolated continent holds so much significance in understanding global environmental challenges.

chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs)

Chlorofluorocarbons, or CFCs, are synthetic compounds originally manufactured for applications such as refrigerants, propellants in aerosol sprays, and solvents. They gained popularity because they are stable, non-flammable, and non-toxic. However, their stability means they easily reach the upper atmosphere or stratosphere. Once there, they are broken down by ultraviolet (UV) radiation, releasing chlorine atoms. These free chlorine atoms are incredibly destructive to ozone molecules. A single CFC molecule can lead to the destruction of thousands of ozone molecules before it becomes inactive and removed from the atmosphere. This chain reaction highlights why CFCs, though no longer produced in most countries, have had long-lasting effects on the ozone layer.

chlorine nitrate

Chlorine nitrate is one of the reservoir compounds formed in the stratosphere that plays a significant role in ozone depletion. Under specific conditions, such as the presence of sunlight and polar stratospheric clouds, chlorine nitrate can break down, releasing chlorine atoms capable of destroying ozone. The chloride ion (Cl) reacts with ozone (O₃) in a cycle that repeatedly breaks down ozone molecules, thus thinning the ozone layer. Understanding the behavior of chlorine nitrate helps scientists predict changes in ozone concentrations and develop models to demonstrate the recovery process of the ozone layer with reduced CFC emissions.

stratosphere

The stratosphere is the second major layer of Earth's atmosphere, situated just above the troposphere and below the mesosphere. It's here that most of Earth's ozone is found, forming what is referred to as the ozone layer. This layer acts as a shield, absorbing and scattering the sun's harmful ultraviolet radiation. Ozone depletion predominantly occurs in the stratosphere, as this is where CFCs and other ozone-depleting substances accumulate. The interactions and chemical reactions in the stratosphere are complex and are influenced by factors such as solar radiation and atmospheric temperature fluctuations. The stratosphere's overall health is essential for life on Earth, as a robust ozone layer prevents excessive UV radiation from reaching the Earth's surface, which could lead to increased rates of skin cancer, cataracts, and other UV-induced health issues.