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The Ozone Layer |
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What is the ozone layer? The ozone layer is a layer of gas that filters
the ultraviolet rays from the sun. It is a thin band of the stratosphere that floats about 25 km above
the earth.
What causes the destruction of the ozone layer? CFCs (chlorofluorocarbons) are the biggest danger to the ozone layer. When they enter the atmosphere they decompose and cause a chemical reaction that involves ozone changing into oxygen. CFCs are found in fridges and aerosols. Other gas responsible for the destruction of the ozone layer are nitric acid and carbonic gas. What are the consequences of the destruction of the ozone layer? Where there is less ozone, UV rays from the sun can penetrate, and pass through, the ozone layer more easily, therefore there is a larger quantity of rays that can reach the earth. It is estimated that if the ozone layer is diminished by 1%, we will suffer a raise of 4% in the number of cases of skin cancer. It is thought that there would be a decrease in the number of marine algae, cultures and forests. A decrease in the ozone layer would affect the immune system and would also provoke ocular problems. | Links | Guestbook |
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