Ozone Layer Depletion — Prelims Questions

Which of the following statements about the Montreal Protocol is/are correct? 1. It is a global treaty to protect the ozone layer by phasing out the production of ozone-depleting substances. 2. The Kigali Amendment to the Protocol aims to phase down Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), which are potent greenhouse gases. 3. India is an Article 2 Party under the Protocol, with earlier phase-out deadlines than developed countries. Select the correct answer using the code given below:

Consider the following statements regarding the formation of the Antarctic ozone hole: 1. It is primarily caused by the catalytic destruction of ozone by chlorine and bromine radicals. 2. Polar Stratospheric Clouds (PSCs) play a crucial role by providing surfaces for chemical reactions that activate chlorine. 3. The strong polar vortex helps in isolating the cold air mass, preventing mixing with ozone-rich air. Which of the statements given above are correct?

Which type of ultraviolet (UV) radiation is almost completely absorbed by the Earth's stratospheric ozone layer and oxygen, making it the most harmful if it were to reach the surface?

Consider the following pairs: 1. CFCs : Refrigerants 2. Halons : Fire extinguishers 3. Methyl Bromide : Pesticides 4. HCFCs : Aerosol propellants Which of the pairs given above are correctly matched regarding their primary uses and classification as Ozone Depleting Substances (ODS)?

Which of the following is NOT a direct health impact of increased UV-B radiation due to ozone layer depletion?