All Flashcards
What is the Ozone Layer?
Region in Earth's stratosphere with high ozone (O₃) concentration; absorbs harmful UV radiation.
What are Ozone-Depleting Substances (ODS)?
Chemicals that break down ozone molecules, thinning the ozone layer.
What are Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs)?
ODS used in refrigerants, aerosols, and foam products.
What are Hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs)?
Transitional ODS replacement for CFCs, still harmful to ozone.
What are Halons?
ODS used in fire extinguishers.
What are Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs)?
Chemicals used as ODS alternatives; potent greenhouse gases.
What is the ozone layer?
Region in Earth's stratosphere with high ozone (O₃) concentration; absorbs harmful UV radiation.
What are Ozone-Depleting Substances (ODS)?
Chemicals that break down ozone molecules, thinning the ozone layer (e.g., CFCs, HCFCs, halons).
What are Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs)?
ODS used in refrigerants, aerosols, and foam products; major cause of ozone depletion.
What are Hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs)?
Transitional replacement for CFCs; still harmful to the ozone layer.
What are Halons?
ODS used in fire extinguishers; contribute to ozone depletion.
What are Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs)?
Chemicals used as replacements for ODS; do not deplete ozone but are potent greenhouse gases.
What is the Montreal Protocol?
International treaty to phase out ODS production and consumption.
Define UV radiation.
Harmful radiation from the sun that the ozone layer absorbs.
Define greenhouse gas.
Gases that trap heat in the atmosphere, contributing to global warming.
Define mitigation.
Actions taken to reduce the severity of environmental problems.
How do ODS deplete the ozone layer?
- ODS released. 2. Drift to stratosphere. 3. UV radiation breaks them down, releasing chlorine/bromine. 4. These atoms destroy ozone.