Freon gas causing stratospheric `O_(3)` depletion is mainly released from :

Options

A. Refrigerators
B. Automobiles
C. Thermal power plants
D. Steel industry.

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding the Question:**
The question asks about the source of Freon gas, which is responsible for the depletion of ozone (O3) in the stratosphere.

2. **Identifying Freon Gas:**
Freon is a type of chlorofluorocarbon (CFC). CFCs are compounds that contain carbon, chlorine, and fluorine. They are commonly used in various applications, primarily as refrigerants.

3. **Analyzing the Options:**
The options provided are:
- Refrigerators
- Automobiles
- Thermal power plants
- Steel industry

4. **Linking Freon to Its Source:**
Among the options, refrigerators are known to use Freon as a refrigerant. This means that they release Freon gas into the atmosphere when they are used or disposed of improperly.

5. **Understanding Ozone Depletion:**
When CFCs like Freon are released into the atmosphere, they eventually reach the stratosphere. There, they release chlorine atoms, which react with ozone (O3), leading to its depletion. This is a significant environmental issue because ozone protects the Earth from harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation.

6. **Eliminating Other Options:**
- Automobiles primarily emit oxides of nitrogen and sulfur, not Freon.
- Thermal power plants also release different pollutants, such as sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides.
- The steel industry emits carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide, but not Freon.

7. **Conclusion:**
Based on the information and analysis, the correct answer to the question is that Freon gas causing stratospheric O3 depletion is mainly released from **refrigerators**.

**Final Answer: Refrigerators**

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