Freons released into the atmosphere, including those used in refrigeration, eventually reach the stratosphere. In the stratosphere, freons can initiate radical chain reactions that disturb the natural ozone balance, posing a significant environmental concern related to ozone layer depletion.
What environmental concern is associated with the release of freons into the atmosphere, and how do they impact the ozone layer in the stratosphere?
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The release of freons into the atmosphere is associated with the environmental concern of ozone depletion. Freons, including chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs), release chlorine and bromine atoms when they reach the stratosphere. These atoms catalytically break down ozone molecules, leading to the depletion of the ozone layer. The ozone layer plays a crucial role in protecting life on Earth by absorbing harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. As the ozone layer diminishes, more UV radiation reaches the Earth’s surface, posing risks to human health, ecosystems, and the environment. This has led to international efforts to phase out and replace ozone-depleting substances.