NCERT Solution for Class 10 Science Chapter 15
Our Environment,
NCERT Books for Session 2022-2023
CBSE Board and UP Board
Exercises Questions
Page No-265
Questions No-9
Why is damage to the ozone layer a cause for concern? What steps are being taken to limit this damage?
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Ozone layer is a protective shield around the earth. It prevents harmful ultraviolet radiation of the sun from reaching the earth. Air pollutants, like chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), are causing depletion of ozone layer. This is allowing greater amount of UV radiation to reach the earth. UV radiation can upset the ecosystem by affecting photosynthesis in plants, destroying planktons and decomposers. In human beings, UV radiation may cause skin cancer, cataract of eyes and damage to immune system. Several developed as well as developing nations of the world have agreed to sign and obey the directions of TINEP (United Nations Environment Programme) to freeze the production of CFCs or to 1imit their production to some extent.
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The damage to the ozone layer is a cause for concern because if the ozone layer
in the atmosphere disappears completely, then all the extremely harmful ultraviolet
radiations coming from the sun would reach the earth. These ultraviolet radiations
would cause skin cancer and other ailments in men and animals and also damage the
plants. In an attempt to protect the ozone layer, the United Nations Environment
Programme (UNEP) unanimously forged an agreement among its member countries to
freeze CFC production at 1986 levels.
Ozone layer protects life on our earth from harmful rays (U.V. rays) of sun by absorbing these rays. Damage of Ozone layer leads to decrease in absorption of harmful rays of sun due to which these harmful rays reaches to earth’s surface and cause harmful effects, so it is necessary to control this damage.
Steps being taken to limit this damage are –
(i)To protect ozone layer, the United Nations environment program forged an agreement to freeze CFC production at 1986 levels.
(ii)Chlorofluoro carbons are now being replaced by hydro-fluorocarbons which do not damage the ozone layer.
Damage to the ozone layer is a cause for concern because the ozone layer plays a crucial role in protecting life on Earth. The ozone layer, located in the Earth’s stratosphere, absorbs the majority of the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation. UV radiation can cause various health problems in humans, such as skin cancer, cataracts, and immune system suppression. Additionally, UV radiation can have detrimental effects on ecosystems, including damage to crops, phytoplankton, and marine life.
The primary cause of ozone layer depletion is the release of certain human-made substances called ozone-depleting substances (ODS), including chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), halons, carbon tetrachloride, and methyl chloroform. These substances release chlorine and bromine atoms when they break down in the stratosphere, which then catalytically destroy ozone molecules.
Several international initiatives have been taken to limit the damage to the ozone layer:
1. Montreal Protocol: The most significant step in addressing ozone layer depletion is the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer, adopted in 1987. The protocol aims to phase out the production and consumption of ODS. It has been successful in reducing the global production and consumption of these substances.
2. Amendments to the Montreal Protocol: The protocol has undergone several amendments to strengthen its effectiveness and address new challenges. For example, the London, Copenhagen, and Montreal Amendments set out specific phase-out schedules for various ODS and introduced controls on hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs), which are less harmful but still contribute to ozone depletion.
3. Substitute Chemicals: As part of the protocol, efforts have been made to find and promote environmentally friendly substitutes for ODS. Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) have been developed as alternatives to some ODS, but they have high global warming potential, leading to discussions about their regulation to address climate change.
4. Global Monitoring: Continuous monitoring of the ozone layer is carried out through satellite observations and ground-based measurements. This helps track the recovery of the ozone layer and identify any potential new threats.
5. Public Awareness and Education: Public awareness campaigns and education programs aim to inform the public about the importance of the ozone layer and the steps individuals can take to contribute to its protection.
As a result of these efforts, there has been evidence of the beginning of recovery in the ozone layer. However, it is crucial to remain vigilant and continue international cooperation to fully restore and protect this vital atmospheric layer.