Q. Which of the following is responsible for the depletion of the ozone layer in the upper strata of the atmosphere?

A) Polyhalogens
B) Ferrocenes
C) Fullerenes
D) Freons
Explanation

(d)
Freons or chlorofluoro carbons are responsible for depletion of the ozone layer in the upper strata of the atmosphere. They are used as propellants, aerosol spray caps, refrigerants, fire fighting reagents etc. They are stable and chemically inert compounds. They absorb UV-radiation and break down liberating free atomic chlorine which causes decomposition of ozone through free radical reaction. This results in the depletion of the ozone layer.
Freons are mainly freon-1 $\left( CFCl_{3} \right)and\ freon - 12\ (CF_{2}Cl_{2})$. They form free radical of chlorine in the presence of UV-radiation. Such free radical decomposes $O_{3}$ as follows
[image:14_image2.emf]

Dr. Abubacker
Reviewed by Dr. Abubacker

Physics Educator & NEET/JEE Specialist

Ph.D. in Physics with 19+ years of teaching experience.