Which of the following is/are responsible for the depletion of the ozone layer in the atmosphere?

Correct option is A

​Correct option: (a),  Chlorofluorocarbons

• The depletion of the ozone layer in the atmosphere is primarily caused by certain chemicals that break down ozone molecules.
• The key substances responsible for ozone layer depletion are chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and other ozone-depleting chemicals (ODCs), such as halons, carbon tetrachloride, and methyl chloroform.

Information Booster: 

Common Substances Responsible for Ozone Depletion:

​Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs):

• These are synthetic compounds containing chlorine, fluorine, and carbon. When CFCs are released into the atmosphere (through products like air conditioners, refrigerators, and aerosols), they rise up to the stratosphere, where they are broken down by ultraviolet (UV) radiation

​Halons:

• ​Halons are similar to CFCs but contain bromine instead of chlorine. They are used in fire extinguishers and other fire-fighting equipment.

​Carbon Tetrachloride (CCl₄):

• ​A chemical once widely used as a solvent and in the production of CFCs.  Like CFCs, it releases chlorine when it breaks down in the stratosphere, contributing to ozone depletion.

​Methyl Chloroform (CH₃CCl₃):

• A solvent once used in cleaning and degreasing operations. It releases chlorine in the upper atmosphere, leading to ozone destruction.