Question
Describe the causes of ozone layer destruction.
Answer
The destruction of the ozone layer is primarily caused by the emission of human-made chemicals known as ozone-depleting substances (ODSs), which include chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), halons, and other compounds. These substances can rise into the stratosphere where they are broken down by UV radiation, releasing chlorine and bromine atoms that can react with ozone molecules, breaking them down and reducing the overall amount of ozone in the atmosphere. This process is known as ozone depletion. Other factors such as volcanic eruptions and changes in solar radiation can also affect the amount of ozone in the atmosphere, but human-made ODSs are the primary cause of ozone layer destruction.
