Ozone (O3)

Ozone if formed by the action of sunlight on oxygen. Ozone forms a layer at about 50 Km from the earths surface. On the surface it is considered to be a polluting gas. However the ozone layer is important as it protects us from harmful ultraviolet radiations coming from the sun. Ozone in the upper layer gets destroyed and regenerates which is a natural process.

Ozone Layer depletion

 It takes place when the destruction of the ozone takes place at a greater rate than the regeneration. This is fatal as it allows the harmful UV radiations to enter the earth’s atmosphere.

Causes of ozone layer depletion:

1. CFCs used in refrigerants and aerosols contain chlorine which reacts with ozone and degenerates it.
2. Some other harmful chemicals like halo derivatives, oxides and nitrogen containing compounds coming from industrial effluents also damage the Ozone.
3. Fertilizers also contain chemicals that can damage the ozone layer.

Effects of Ozone layer depletion:

1. Human ailments due to exposure to harmful UV rays can be caused. These include skin diseases.
2. UV rays can also affect vision and cause cataracts.
3. UV rays affect crops and some micro organisms. This alters the food chain and brings imbalance to the ecosystem.
4. Decrease in vegetation leads to increase in CO2 levels.
5. UV rays also lead to melting of ice caps causing rise in sea levels which leads to submergence of coastal towns and cities.