There is a hole in the ozone layer. What do you understand by this

Subject : Chemistry

Question:

There is a hole in the ozone layer. What do you understand by this?

Expert Verified Solution:

The term “hole in the ozone layer” refers to a significant thinning of the ozone layer in the stratosphere, primarily over the polar regions. This phenomenon is not a literal hole but rather a dramatic reduction in ozone concentration. The depletion is mainly caused by human-made chemicals, such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and halons, which break down ozone molecules. This thinning allows more harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the Sun to reach Earth’s surface, increasing the risk of skin cancer, cataracts, and environmental damage. International agreements like the Montreal Protocol have been established to address and mitigate this issue by phasing out ozone-depleting substances.

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