All Flashcards
What are the environmental consequences of releasing CFCs?
Ozone depletion, increased UV radiation reaching Earth's surface, harm to plants/animals, increased skin cancer risk.
What are the effects of increased UV radiation on humans?
Increased risk of skin cancer and cataracts.
What are the effects of increased UV radiation on ecosystems?
Damage to plant life and disruption of marine food chains.
What is the impact of using HFCs as ODS replacements?
Reduced ozone depletion but increased greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to climate change.
What are the steps of ozone depletion?
- ODS released into atmosphere. 2. ODS drift to stratosphere. 3. UV radiation breaks down ODS, releasing chlorine/bromine. 4. Chlorine/bromine destroy ozone molecules.
What is the ozone layer?
Region in Earth's stratosphere with high ozone (O₃) concentration; absorbs harmful UV radiation.
What are Ozone-Depleting Substances (ODS)?
Chemicals that break down ozone molecules, thinning the ozone layer (e.g., CFCs, HCFCs, halons).
What are Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs)?
ODS used in refrigerants, aerosols, and foam products; major cause of ozone depletion.
What are Hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs)?
Transitional replacement for CFCs; still harmful to the ozone layer.
What are Halons?
ODS used in fire extinguishers; contribute to ozone depletion.
What are Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs)?
Chemicals used as replacements for ODS; do not deplete ozone but are potent greenhouse gases.
What is the Montreal Protocol?
International treaty to phase out ODS production and consumption.
Define UV radiation.
Harmful radiation from the sun that the ozone layer absorbs.
Define greenhouse gas.
Gases that trap heat in the atmosphere, contributing to global warming.
Define mitigation.
Actions taken to reduce the severity of environmental problems.