How is CFCs related to air pollution?
How is CFCs related to air pollution?
Pollutants can also damage the atmosphere above Earth’s surface. A well-known example of this damage is that caused by chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs). While generally chemically inert and non-toxic in these settings, CFCs diffuse into the upper atmosphere where they destroy the ultraviolet-absorbing ozone shield.
Is chlorofluorocarbons an air pollutant?
Chloroflorocarbons (CFC) are gases that are released mainly from air-conditioning systems and refrigeration. This important gas shields the earth from the harmful ultraviolet rays of the sun. However, at the ground level, it is a pollutant with highly toxic effects.
Why are chlorofluorocarbons considered as pollutants?
The chlorofluorocarbons release chlorine atoms when they break down in the presence of UV radiations and thus deplete the ozone layer. The chlorine released reacts with ozone molecules and forms oxygen which reduces the ozone quantity causing its depletion. This is the reason why CFCs are considered as pollutants.
Are CFCs indoor or outdoor pollutants?
We also create chemicals that would not naturally occur in the atmosphere. Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs), which are used as refrigerants, are examples of pollutants that only come from human activity.
Why does carbon dioxide act as a greenhouse gas?
Gases in the atmosphere, such as carbon dioxide, trap heat similar to the glass roof of a greenhouse. These heat-trapping gases are called greenhouse gases. At night, Earth’s surface cools, releasing heat back into the air. But some of the heat is trapped by the greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.
What property of co2 makes it a greenhouse gas?
Do all gas molecules absorb and re-emit infrared energy? This ability to absorb and re-emit infrared energy is what makes CO2 an effective heat-trapping greenhouse gas. Not all gas molecules are able to absorb IR radiation.
What is the most potent greenhouse gas?
Water vapor
What are the effects of increased carbon dioxide?
Why carbon dioxide matters Without this natural greenhouse effect, Earth’s average annual temperature would be below freezing instead of close to 60°F. But increases in greenhouse gases have tipped the Earth’s energy budget out of balance, trapping additional heat and raising Earth’s average temperature.