Ozone depletion refers to the phenomenon of reductions in the amount o...
Ozone depletion refers to the phenomenon of reductions in the amount of ozone in the:
There are four layers of the Earth's atmosphere: troposphere, stratosphere, mesosphere, and exosphere. Ozone depletion specifically occurs in the stratosphere. Here is a detailed explanation:
Troposphere:
- The troposphere is the lowest layer of the Earth's atmosphere.
- It is where weather events occur and where most of the Earth's air mass is concentrated.
- Ozone is present in this layer, but its concentration is relatively low compared to the stratosphere.
Exosphere:
- The exosphere is the outermost layer of the Earth's atmosphere.
- It is the layer where atoms and molecules escape into space.
- Ozone concentration is extremely low in this layer.
Mesosphere:
- The mesosphere is the third layer of the Earth's atmosphere, located above the stratosphere.
- It is the layer where meteors burn up upon entry.
- Ozone concentration is very low in this layer.
Stratosphere:
- The stratosphere is the second layer of the Earth's atmosphere, located above the troposphere.
- It contains a high concentration of ozone molecules, which form the ozone layer.
- Ozone in the stratosphere absorbs most of the Sun's harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation, protecting life on Earth.
- Ozone depletion occurs when certain human-made chemicals, such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), reach the stratosphere and break down ozone molecules.
- These chemicals release chlorine and bromine atoms, which then catalytically destroy ozone molecules.
Therefore, the correct answer is D: Stratosphere.