Ozone depletion
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Science Photo Library
Ozone depletion
Ozone depletion. Computer illustration showing the process of ozone (O3) depletion in the upper atmosphere (stratosphere) over Antarctica. Chloro- fluorocarbons (CFCs) from aerosols destroy the O3 that filters the Suns harmful ultraviolet radiat- ion. Ultraviolet light (purple wavy lines) breaks down the CFC (lower left), releasing its chlorine (Cl, blue). Each Cl atom tears an oxygen atom (O, red) from O3 to form ClO and an oxygen molecule (O2). In cold conditions nitrogen dioxide (NO2, upper left), which can store ClO, is lost in snowfall (centre). This leaves the ClO free to destroy O3 in a continuous cycle (centre right)
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 6373199
© HENNING DALHOFF / SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Air Pollution Antarctica Atmosphere Atmospheric Pollution Destruction Earth Science Ozone Ozone Depletion Ozone Hole Pollution Process Sciences
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print from Science Photo Library showcases the alarming process of ozone depletion in the upper atmosphere over Antarctica. Through a computer illustration, we witness how chloro-fluorocarbons (CFCs) emitted from aerosols play a destructive role in diminishing the protective ozone layer that filters the Sun's harmful ultraviolet radiation. The intricate artwork vividly depicts purple wavy lines representing ultraviolet light breaking down CFC molecules, releasing chlorine atoms (Cl, blue). Each Cl atom then proceeds to tear apart an oxygen atom (O, red) from an ozone molecule (O3), resulting in the formation of ClO and an oxygen molecule (O2). However, this cycle intensifies when cold conditions cause nitrogen dioxide (NO2, upper left), which can store ClO temporarily, to be lost through snowfall at the center of attention. Consequently, this loss leaves free ClO particles unhindered to continue their devastating impact on O3 molecules. The continuous destruction perpetuated by CFCs and Cl atoms creates a concerning feedback loop illustrated at the center-right portion of this thought-provoking image. Through its artistic representation and scientific accuracy, this photograph serves as a powerful reminder of our planet's vulnerability to human-induced atmospheric pollution. It highlights both the importance of understanding Earth science and our responsibility towards mitigating air pollution for future generations.
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