In winter polar Stratospheric clouds provide surface on which chlorine...
In summer season, nitrogen dioxide and methane react with chlorine monoxide and chlorine free radicals forming chlorine sinks, preventing much ozone depletion, whereas in winters, special type of clouds, called the polar stratospheric clouds are formed over Antarctica.These polar stratospheric clouds provide surface on which chlorine nitrate gets hydrolysed to form hypochlorous acid. It also reacts with hydrogen chloride to give molecular chlorine.
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In winter polar Stratospheric clouds provide surface on which chlorine...
Understanding Polar Stratospheric Clouds (PSCs)
Polar Stratospheric Clouds are formed in the stratosphere during winter when temperatures drop significantly. These clouds play a crucial role in the chemistry of the atmosphere, particularly in the depletion of ozone.
Formation of Chlorine Compounds
- Chlorine compounds, such as chlorine nitrate (ClONO2), accumulate on the surfaces of PSCs.
- When sunlight returns in spring, these compounds undergo photolysis, leading to chemical reactions.
Hydrolysis Process
- Hydrolysis is a reaction involving water, which occurs when chlorine nitrate comes into contact with the ice surface of PSCs.
- The reaction can be summarized as follows:
- ClONO2 + H2O → HOCl + HNO3
- Here, hypochlorous acid (HOCl) and nitric acid (HNO3) are produced.
Significance of Hypochlorous Acid
- Hypochlorous acid is a reactive species that can further dissociate to release chlorine free radicals (Cl•) under certain conditions.
- However, the question specifically asks about the product formed directly from the hydrolysis of chlorine nitrate.
Why Option D is Correct
- The hydrolysis of chlorine nitrate specifically yields hypochlorous acid (HOCl) as one of the primary products.
- While chlorine free radicals may form subsequently, they are not the immediate product of the hydrolysis reaction.
Conclusion
- In summary, the hydrolysis of chlorine nitrate on polar stratospheric clouds primarily results in the formation of hypochlorous acid (option D), which plays a significant role in atmospheric chemistry and ozone depletion.