Directions: In the following questions, a statement of assertion (A) ...
Ozone is damaging as it is a deadly poison. It is beneficial as it shields the surface of the earth from UV radiations of the Sun. We should stop the release of Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) to protect the ozone.
Directions: In the following questions, a statement of assertion (A) ...
Assertion : Ozone is both beneficial and damaging.
Reason : Stop the release of chlorofluorocarbons to protect the ozone.
Explanation:
Ozone is a molecule composed of three oxygen atoms (O3). It is present in the Earth's atmosphere, particularly in the stratosphere. Ozone has both beneficial and damaging effects on the environment.
Beneficial Effects of Ozone:
- Ozone in the stratosphere absorbs most of the Sun's harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation, preventing it from reaching the Earth's surface. This protects living organisms, including humans, from the harmful effects of UV radiation such as skin cancer, cataracts, and weakened immune system.
- Ozone also plays a crucial role in regulating the temperature of the Earth's atmosphere. It absorbs and traps heat, contributing to the greenhouse effect and keeping the Earth warm enough to support life.
Reason: Stop the release of chlorofluorocarbons to protect the ozone.
Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) are synthetic chemicals that were commonly used in various industrial and consumer products such as refrigerators, air conditioners, and aerosol sprays. When released into the atmosphere, CFCs can reach the stratosphere where they can cause damage to the ozone layer.
Damage to the Ozone Layer:
- CFCs contain chlorine atoms that can catalytically destroy ozone molecules. When a chlorine atom comes into contact with an ozone molecule, it can break apart the ozone molecule, reducing the concentration of ozone in the stratosphere.
- The destruction of the ozone layer leads to the formation of the "ozone hole," particularly over Antarctica, where ozone depletion is most severe. The ozone hole allows more UV radiation to reach the Earth's surface, increasing the risk of health problems and damaging ecosystems.
Conclusion:
Therefore, the statement of assertion is true as ozone has both beneficial and damaging effects. The reason provided is also true as stopping the release of chlorofluorocarbons can help protect the ozone layer. However, the reason is not a direct and complete explanation of the assertion. The damaging effects of ozone depletion are not solely dependent on the release of chlorofluorocarbons, but it is an important factor contributing to ozone depletion. Hence, the correct choice is (b) Both assertion (A) and reason (R) are true but reason (R) is not the correct explanation of assertion (A).