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

To solve the question regarding which compound depletes ozone in the stratosphere, we can follow these steps:

### Step 1: Identify the Compounds
We have four options given:
- a) CF2Cl2
- b) C7F16
- c) C6H6Cl2
- d) C6F6

### Step 2: Understand Ozone Depletion
Ozone in the stratosphere is primarily depleted by chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs). CFCs release chlorine atoms when they are broken down by ultraviolet (UV) radiation. These chlorine atoms then react with ozone (O3) and lead to its depletion.

### Step 3: Analyze Each Option
1. **CF2Cl2 (Dichlorodifluoromethane)**: This compound is a CFC and contains chlorine, which is known to deplete ozone.
2. **C7F16 (Perfluoroheptane)**: This compound contains only fluorine and no chlorine, so it does not contribute to ozone depletion.
3. **C6H6Cl2 (Dichlorobenzene)**: This compound contains chlorine but lacks fluorine, which is characteristic of CFCs. Thus, it is not a CFC.
4. **C6F6 (Hexafluorobenzene)**: This compound contains only fluorine and no chlorine, making it ineffective in ozone depletion.

### Step 4: Conclusion
From the analysis, the only compound that is a chlorofluorocarbon and contributes to ozone depletion is **CF2Cl2**. Therefore, the correct answer is option **a) CF2Cl2**.

### Final Answer
Ozone in the stratosphere is depleted by **CF2Cl2**.

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