Question

Use of chlorofluoro carbons is not encouraged because (a) They are harmful to the eyes of people that use it (b) They damage the refrigerators and air conditioers (c) They eat away the ozone in the atmosphere (d) They destroy the oxygen layer

Short answer

CFCs are discouraged because they deplete the ozone layer (option c).

Step-by-step solution

Understanding the Problem

We need to determine why the use of chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) is discouraged.

Analyzing Each Option

Analyze why each given option could potentially be a reason for discouraging CFCs. - Option (a) suggests harm to eyes. - Option (b) suggests damage to appliances. - Option (c) suggests ozone layer depletion. - Option (d) suggests destruction of the oxygen layer.

Checking Scientific Facts

Recall that CFCs are known for their environmental impact, particularly their role in the depletion of the ozone layer which protects Earth from harmful UV radiation.

Comparing Facts with Options

Compare scientific facts with each option to see which one aligns correctly. Option (c) aligns with the fact that CFCs contribute to the depletion of the ozone layer. None of the other options match scientific consensus.

Conclusion

Based on our analysis, the correct reason why the use of chlorofluorocarbons is discouraged is because they eat away the ozone in the atmosphere.

Key concepts

Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs)

Chlorofluorocarbons, commonly known as CFCs, are a group of compounds made up of chlorine, fluorine, and carbon atoms. Historically, they were widely used in applications such as refrigeration, air conditioning, and as propellants in aerosol sprays.

Their popularity spiked because they are nonflammable, non-toxic, and relatively cheap to produce. However, the environmental impact of these substances was not initially understood. Over time, scientists discovered that while CFCs are stable at the surface level of the Earth, their real danger manifests in the higher levels of the atmosphere.

Due to their chemical stability, CFCs rise up, reaching the stratosphere where they encounter ultraviolet (UV) light. This interaction leads to the release of chlorine atoms, which become highly reactive. These chlorine atoms then set off a chain reaction, leading to the decomposition of ozone molecules, further contributing to the depletion of the ozone layer. Hence, their usage is discouraged in efforts to protect our atmospheric protection shield.

Ozone layer depletion

The ozone layer is a crucial part of our planet’s atmospheric system, as it absorbs and scatters the majority of the sun's harmful ultraviolet radiation. This protective layer is located within the stratosphere and houses about 90% of the atmosphere's ozone.

Depletion of the ozone layer is a critical environmental issue, mainly due to the release of CFCs and other ozone-depleting substances. When CFCs break down in the stratosphere, they release chlorine atoms.

- Each chlorine atom can destroy up to thousands of ozone molecules. - As the rate of depletion increases, more UV radiation reaches the Earth's surface. - This radiation increase raises health concerns, such as skin cancer and cataracts, and can adversely affect ecosystems and wildlife.
Efforts to reduce and ban the use of CFCs have been somewhat successful, thanks to international agreements like the Montreal Protocol, which aimed at phasing out substances responsible for ozone depletion.

Atmospheric science

Atmospheric science is a broad field that encompasses the study of the Earth's atmosphere. It involves understanding weather patterns, climate change, and the chemical and physical properties of atmospheric phenomena.

In the context of CFCs and ozone depletion, atmospheric scientists study:

• The movement of air masses that transport CFCs to the stratosphere.
• The chemical reactions that lead to ozone depletion.
• How variations in atmospheric conditions can influence the distribution and impact of CFCs.

Atmospheric science is crucial in crafting policies and responses to issues like climate change and air pollution. It provides the insights needed to understand the pathways of pollutants and develop strategies to mitigate their effects.

By continuing research in this field, scientists can monitor the recovery of the ozone layer and ensure the Earth's natural shield against UV radiation is sustained for future generations.