How do chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) deplete the ozone layer in the stratosphere? Explain with the associated chemical reactions.

Vedclass pdf generator app on play store
Vedclass iOS app on app store
(N/A) Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs),used as refrigerants and aerosol propellants,are released into the atmosphere.
In the stratosphere,they decompose in the presence of ultraviolet $(UV)$ radiation to release chlorine atoms (free radicals):
$CF_{2}Cl_{2} \xrightarrow{hv} ^{\bullet}CF_{2}Cl + Cl^{\bullet}$
These reactive chlorine atoms then react with ozone to deplete the ozone layer through the following chain reactions:
$Cl^{\bullet} + O_{3} \rightarrow ClO^{\bullet} + O_{2}$
$ClO^{\bullet} + O \rightarrow Cl^{\bullet} + O_{2}$
It is observed that a single molecule of $CFC$ can destroy up to $1000$ molecules of ozone.

Explore More

Similar Questions

Which of the following statements is incorrect?

Which gaseous pollutant,even in low concentrations,causes respiratory distress such as inflammation and irritation in the human respiratory tract?

Which of the following gases is not a greenhouse gas?

The brown color of photochemical smog is primarily due to which of the following?

Given below are two statements:
Statement $I$: Non-biodegradable wastes are generated by the thermal power plants.
Statement $II$: Bio-degradable detergents lead to eutrophication.
In the light of the above statements,choose the most appropriate answer from the options given below:

Vedclass Products

For Students

Vedclass Test Series

Mock tests in real JEE/NEET style with performance analysis. 5-day free trial.

Start Free Trial
For Teachers

Exam Paper Generator

Generate Set A/B/C/D exam papers from 7.5L+ questions in 2 minutes. 3 chapters free.

Try Free
For Institutes

Online Exam Module

Live online exams with unlimited students, 360° analytics & white-label branding.

See Demo