Ozone Depletion | AQA A-Level Environmental Science Revision | Primrose Kitten

Ozone Layer

A layer in the stratosphere made of triatomic oxygen (O3) that protects the Earth from harmful UV light.

UV Light

Ultraviolet light radiated from the sun

Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs)

Manmade chemicals used in refrigerants, aerosol propellants, and solvents, which have been linked to the depletion of the ozone layer.

Rowland-Molina Hypothesis

A hypothesis suggesting that CFCs could cause ozone depletion due to their persistence and release of reactive chlorine.

Dobson Units

A measure of ozone concentration, where 10 Dobson units equal a 0.1mm thick ozone layer at sea level.

Ozone Hole

An area with less than 220 Dobson units, indicating significant ozone depletion.

How were satellite surveys used in monitoring ozone depletion?

Surveys conducted using satellites to detect increased UV reflection from Earth's surface, indicating ozone depletion.

Chlorine radical

Chemicals responsible for ozone depletion, released from split CFCs and preventing ozone formation.

Polar Vortex

Cold temperatures creating a vortex over Antarctica, leading to increased ozone depletion due to ice cloud formation.

Montreal Protocol

An international treaty that banned the manufacture and use of CFCs, phased out hydrochlorofluorocarbons, and provided funds for compliance.

Hydrochlorofluorocarbons

An alternative to CFCs, less stable and to be phased out by 2030.

Alternative Materials

Materials used to replace CFCs, such as hydrocarbons and pump action sprays.