Do chlorofluorocarbons increase the amount of ozone in the atmosphere?

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Prepare for the Registered Sanitarian Test with flashcards and multiple-choice questions. Each question includes hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) do not increase the amount of ozone in the atmosphere; in fact, they contribute to ozone depletion. When CFCs are released into the atmosphere, they eventually rise up and reach the stratosphere, where they are broken down by ultraviolet (UV) radiation, releasing chlorine atoms. These chlorine atoms catalyze the destruction of ozone (O3) molecules, which is a crucial component of the stratospheric ozone layer that protects the Earth from harmful UV radiation.

The overall effect of CFCs is detrimental to the ozone layer, leading to thinning and the formation of the ozone hole, particularly over Antarctica. This depletion leads to increased UV radiation reaching the Earth's surface, which can result in various environmental and health issues.

Given this understanding, it is clear that the notion of CFCs increasing ozone levels is incorrect. Instead, they play a significant role in reducing the concentration of ozone in the atmosphere.

In this context, other choices imply scenarios that do not reflect the scientific consensus on CFCs and their impact on ozone.

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