What caused the hole in the ozone layer: Explain

Subject : Physics

Question:

What caused the hole in the ozone layer?

Expert Verified Solution:

Description: The hole in the ozone layer is primarily caused by human-made chemicals known as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and other ozone-depleting substances. When CFCs and similar compounds are released into the atmosphere, they eventually reach the stratosphere, where ultraviolet (UV) radiation breaks them down, releasing chlorine and bromine atoms. These atoms then react with ozone molecules, leading to significant depletion of the ozone layer. This thinning of the ozone layer is most pronounced over the Antarctic region, creating what is commonly referred to as the ozone hole. International agreements, such as the Montreal Protocol, have been established to reduce and phase out the use of these harmful substances to address and mitigate the damage.

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