What chemical is primarily responsible for ozone depletion?

Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) are primarily responsible for ozone depletion because they release chlorine atoms into the atmosphere when they are broken down by ultraviolet (UV) radiation. This process occurs in the stratosphere, where CFCs rise after being emitted from various sources, such as refrigerants, aerosol propellants, and foam-blowing agents. Once CFCs reach the stratosphere, UV radiation breaks them apart, releasing chlorine that can react with ozone (O3) molecules. One chlorine atom can destroy thousands of ozone molecules before it is removed from the atmosphere, leading to a significant thinning of the ozone layer, which is crucial for blocking harmful UV radiation from reaching the Earth's surface.

While hydrofluorocarbons (HCFCs) and nitrous oxide can also contribute to ozone depletion, their impact is less severe compared to CFCs. HCFCs are considered less harmful than CFCs due to their shorter atmospheric lifetimes and lower ozone-depleting potential, but they still pose a risk. Nitrous oxide has a different pathway and is primarily a greenhouse gas, contributing to climate change and having a lesser direct effect on ozone. Carbon dioxide does not play a significant role in ozone