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OZONE DEPLETION

OZONE DEPLETION. IS IT A SERIOUS THREAT?. The Problem:. An increase in Chlorofluorocarbons in the upper stratosphere will break down the existing ozone layer which protects life on earth from intense ultra violet rays. (review electromagnetic spectrum). Dream chemicals? CFCs discovered 1930s

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OZONE DEPLETION

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  1. OZONE DEPLETION IS IT A SERIOUS THREAT?

  2. The Problem: • An increase in Chlorofluorocarbons in the upper stratosphere will break down the existing ozone layer which protects life on earth from intense ultra violet rays. • (review electromagnetic spectrum)

  3. Dream chemicals? CFCs discovered 1930s Chemically stable, odorless, nonflammable, nontoxic, and non-corrosive , cheap Used as: coolants in air conditioners cleaners for electronic parts sterilants for hospital instruments fumigants for granaries building blocks for plastic foam Chlorofluorocarbons

  4. Nightmare chemicals spray cans, leaky air conditioners and refrigeration equipment and plastic foam leaked CFCs into the environment CFCs rise into the stratosphere where under the influence of Ultra Violet light they release chlorine atoms which break down the ozone layer. Chlorofluorocarbons

  5. CFCs are not the only ozone eaters: • Chemicals that release bromine such as halons and HBFCs (both used in fire extinguishers) • Cleaning solvents such as carbon tetrachloride and methyl chloroform

  6. Purpose of the Ozone Layer? • The thinner ozone layer allows more UV light to penetrate the atmosphere • This leads to: • more sunburns • cataracts (clouding of the lens) • skin cancers • reduced crop production • lowered immune response • phytoplankton disturbed (effect CO2 uptake?

  7. Types of skin cancer

  8. What is the evidence that the ozone layer is depleted?

  9. Stop producing ozone depleting chemicals - safe substitutes can be found (even so it will take 50 years to repair damage). Solutions to the problem

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