Ozone depletion

Science

Definition

Ozone depletion is the thinning of Earth's stratospheric ozone layer caused primarily by human-made chemicals called chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs). The ozone layer absorbs harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the Sun, so its depletion increases UV exposure at Earth's surface, raising risks of skin cancer and cataracts.

Examples

  • The Antarctic ozone hole discovered in 1985 by British scientists
  • The Montreal Protocol (1987) banning CFCs to protect the ozone layer
  • Increased UV-B radiation harming phytoplankton in Southern Ocean waters
Key Fact

The Montreal Protocol (1987) is considered the most successful international environmental agreement.

Related Terms

Atmosphere layers Greenhouse effect Climate change Electromagnetic spectrum

Study This Concept

Practice ozone depletion with free review games in these units:

AP Environmental Science Unit 7: Atmospheric Pollution