What process occurs after an atom of chlorine collides with an ozone molecule?

What process occurs after an atom of chlorine collides with an ozone molecule?

• A. It forms new ozone molecules
• B. It creates oxygen and free chlorine
• C. It synthesizes chlorofluorocarbons
• D. It recycles ozone

Answer: (B)

When an atom of chlorine collides with an ozone molecule (O3), a chemical reaction occurs that leads to the breakdown of the ozone molecule. During this process, the chlorine atom reacts with ozone, resulting in the formation of oxygen (O2) and a free chlorine atom. This free chlorine can then go on to react with more ozone molecules, perpetuating the cycle of ozone depletion. The reaction highlights a significant environmental concern regarding ozone depletion in the stratosphere, where the ozone layer protects the Earth from harmful ultraviolet radiation. The ability of chlorine atoms to catalyze the breakdown of ozone illustrates why substances like chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) have been banned or restricted, as they can release chlorine in the stratosphere and contribute to ozone layer damage. This understanding underscores the chemical dynamics involved in atmospheric chemistry and highlights the importance of regulating substances that can release chlorine, impacting the ozone layer.

When an atom of chlorine collides with an ozone molecule (O3), a chemical reaction occurs that leads to the breakdown of the ozone molecule. During this process, the chlorine atom reacts with ozone, resulting in the formation of oxygen (O2) and a free chlorine atom. This free chlorine can then go on to react with more ozone molecules, perpetuating the cycle of ozone depletion.

The reaction highlights a significant environmental concern regarding ozone depletion in the stratosphere, where the ozone layer protects the Earth from harmful ultraviolet radiation. The ability of chlorine atoms to catalyze the breakdown of ozone illustrates why substances like chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) have been banned or restricted, as they can release chlorine in the stratosphere and contribute to ozone layer damage.

This understanding underscores the chemical dynamics involved in atmospheric chemistry and highlights the importance of regulating substances that can release chlorine, impacting the ozone layer.