Which of the following gaseous atmospheric pollutants is primarily responsible for the dep… — JAMB UTME

Which of the following gaseous atmospheric pollutants is primarily responsible for the depletion of the stratospheric ozone layer, leading to increased exposure to harmful ultraviolet radiation?

Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs)Answer
B
Sulfur dioxide ( $SO_2$ )
C
Carbon dioxide ( $CO_2$ )
D
Carbon monoxide ( $CO$ )

Answer

Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs)

Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) migrate into the stratosphere where solar ultraviolet radiation releases active chlorine radicals. These chlorine radicals react with and decompose ozone (

O_3

) into molecular oxygen (

O_2

), thinning the ozone shield and allowing increased UV radiation to reach the biosphere.

Step-by-Step Solution

Identify the primary air pollutant responsible for stratospheric ozone (

O_3

) degradation.

Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) are volatile organic compounds containing chlorine, fluorine, and carbon.

When CFCs reach the stratosphere, ultraviolet radiation breaks them down to release chlorine atoms, which act as catalysts in ozone destruction.

Distinguish CFCs from greenhouse gases, acid rain precursors, and toxic physiological gases.

Sulfur dioxide causes acid deposition, carbon dioxide is a primary greenhouse gas, and carbon monoxide causes respiratory poisoning.

Only chlorine-containing free radicals specifically destroy the protective stratospheric ozone shield.

Key Concept

Atmospheric Pollution and Ozone Layer Depletion

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