Ozone in the stratosphere is deleted by

Options

A. `CF_(2)Cl_(2)`
B. `C_(7)F_(16)`
C. `C_(6)H_(6)Cl_(2)`
D. `C_(6)F_(6)`

Answer

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding the Ozone Layer**: The ozone layer is located in the stratosphere above the Earth's surface. It plays a crucial role in protecting life on Earth by absorbing harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun.

2. **Identifying the Depleting Agents**: The primary substances responsible for the depletion of the ozone layer are chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs). These compounds contain chlorine, fluorine, and carbon.

3. **Mechanism of Ozone Depletion**:
- When CFCs are released into the atmosphere, they eventually reach the stratosphere.
- In the stratosphere, UV radiation breaks down CFCs, releasing chlorine atoms.

4. **Chlorine's Reaction with Ozone**:
- A chlorine atom reacts with an ozone (O3) molecule. This reaction results in the formation of chlorine monoxide (ClO) and a molecule of oxygen (O2).
- The reaction can be summarized as:
\[ \text{Cl} + \text{O}_3 \rightarrow \text{ClO} + \text{O}_2 \]

5. **Regeneration of Chlorine**:
- The chlorine monoxide (ClO) can react with a free oxygen atom (O) to regenerate the chlorine atom and produce another molecule of oxygen (O2):
\[ \text{ClO} + \text{O} \rightarrow \text{Cl} + \text{O}_2 \]
- This means that one chlorine atom can destroy many ozone molecules, leading to significant depletion of the ozone layer.

6. **Cycle of Ozone Depletion**: The process continues, as the free chlorine can react with more ozone molecules, perpetuating the cycle of ozone depletion.

### Summary:
Ozone in the stratosphere is depleted primarily by chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), which release chlorine atoms that react with ozone, leading to its breakdown and the formation of oxygen.

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