Assignment #01

Subject: Climate Change

Name :
Hijab Zahra
Class :
M. Phil Zoology (Weekend)
Assignment Topic :
Ozone Depletion
Submitted To :
Dr.Aleem Ahmad Khan
Session :
2023-2025
Date :
02-03-2024
Department :
Institute of Pure and Applied Biology

Bahauddin Zakariya University Multan

 Ozone Depletion
Definition of Ozone:
Ozone, often referred to as trioxygen, is a molecule composed of three oxygen atoms bonded
together (O3). It occurs naturally in the Earth's atmosphere and plays a vital role in shielding the
planet from harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation emitted by the sun. Ozone also exists in the
Earth's lower atmosphere as a pollutant, contributing to smog and respiratory issues.

Formation of Ozone in the Atmosphere:

Ozone is primarily formed in the Earth's stratosphere, where oxygen molecules (O2) are broken
down by high-energy UV radiation from the sun. When UV rays strike an oxygen molecule, it
splits into two individual oxygen atoms (O). These highly reactive atoms can then combine with
other oxygen molecules to form ozone (O3). This natural process occurs continuously,
maintaining the ozone layer's balance.

Layers of the Atmosphere:

 The Earth's atmosphere consists of several layers, each with distinct characteristics:
 The troposphere: This layer extends from the Earth's surface to about 10 kilometers (6
miles) above. It contains the air we breathe and is where weather phenomena like clouds,
rain, and storms occur.
 The stratosphere: Above the troposphere, extending from about 10 to 50 kilometers (6 to
31 miles) above the Earth's surface, lies the stratosphere. This layer contains the ozone
layer, which absorbs and filters UV radiation from the sun, protecting life on Earth.
 The mesosphere, thermosphere, and exosphere: These higher layers extend further into
space and have different characteristics, such as decreasing air density and increasing
temperatures.

Existence of Ozone in the Stratosphere:

The ozone layer is predominantly found within the lower portion of the stratosphere, between
approximately 15 and 35 kilometers (9 and 22 miles) above the Earth's surface. This region
contains a higher concentration of ozone molecules, forming a protective barrier against harmful
UV radiation.

Ozone Depletion:
Ozone depletion refers to the gradual thinning or reduction in the ozone layer's concentration,
particularly in the stratosphere. This depletion is primarily attributed to human activities that
release ozone-depleting substances (ODS) into the atmosphere. These substances, including
chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), halons, and bromine-containing compounds, chemically react with
ozone molecules, leading to their breakdown and depletion.

Example of Antarctica:
The ozone hole over Antarctica, first discovered in the 1980s, serves as a striking example of
ozone depletion. Each year, during the Southern Hemisphere's spring (September to November),
atmospheric conditions over Antarctica facilitate the formation of a large and persistent ozone
hole. This phenomenon is primarily driven by the presence of ozone-depleting substances and
polar stratospheric clouds, resulting in significant ozone loss.

Causes of Ozone Depletion:

Ozone depletion is primarily caused by the release of ozone-depleting substances (ODS) into the
atmosphere through human activities. These substances, including CFCs, halons, methyl
chloroform, and carbon tetrachloride, were commonly used in industrial processes, refrigeration,
air conditioning, and aerosol propellants. Once released into the atmosphere, these chemicals
undergo chemical reactions that break down ozone molecules, leading to ozone depletion.

Process of Ozone Formation:

The natural process of ozone formation begins with the absorption of high-energy UV radiation
from the sun by oxygen molecules (O2) in the stratosphere. This radiation breaks apart oxygen
molecules, resulting in the formation of individual oxygen atoms (O). These atoms can then react
with other oxygen molecules to form ozone (O3). Conversely, ozone can also be broken down by
certain chemicals, such as chlorine and bromine, through catalytic reactions, leading to ozone
depletion.

Effects of Ozone Depletion

Humans:
Increased UV radiation due to ozone depletion can have adverse effects on human health,
including an increased risk of skin cancer, cataracts, and immune system suppression. UV
exposure can also cause sunburns and premature aging of the skin.
Animals:
UV radiation can harm various animal species, affecting their eyesight, causing skin diseases,
and disrupting ecosystems. For example, UV exposure can reduce fish populations by damaging
their larvae and affecting aquatic food chains.
Plants:
Plants are susceptible to UV radiation, which can damage their leaves, reduce photosynthesis
rates, and inhibit growth. This can impact agricultural productivity, crop yields, and plant
biodiversity.

Ocean:
UV radiation penetrates into the ocean, affecting marine organisms like phytoplankton, corals,
and fish larvae. UV exposure can disrupt marine ecosystems, leading to changes in species
distribution, reduced coral reef health, and impacts on fisheries and marine food webs.

How to address ozone depletion

To address ozone depletion and mitigate its harmful effects, various strategies and measures can
be implemented:
Avoid ODS:
Phasing out the production and use of ozone-depleting substances (ODS), including CFCs,
halons, methyl chloroform, and carbon tetrachloride, through international agreements like the
Montreal Protocol.
Promote Alternatives:
Encouraging the use of ozone-friendly alternatives, such as hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) and
natural refrigerants, in industrial processes, refrigeration, and air conditioning.
Enhance Monitoring:
Strengthening global monitoring networks and research efforts to track ozone depletion trends,
assess the effectiveness of mitigation measures, and identify emerging threats.
Raise Awareness:
Educating the public about the harmful effects of Ozone Depletion