The main

cause of the ozone hole was found to be gases that contained

Cholorofluorocarbons (CFCs), Halons and Freons. Found commonly in aerosol cans

and released by many electronic appliances, these were seen to decrease the

level of ozone in the stratosphere. All of these gases contain chlorine, which

is a major cause behind the thinning of the ozone layer.

The

destruction of the ozone layer is primarily caused when the amount of gases

that contain chlorine begins to increase in the environment. As these gases

rise upwards, they are exposed to UV light. This then causes a chemical

reaction which creates chlorine atoms. These affect the atoms of ozone and

cause ozone depletion.

Although

the process has been taking place for several years, the ozone layer was

repairing itself naturally. With the marked increase in the emission of these

gases, the ozone hole above Antarctica is becoming a permanent part of the

layer. Even though the damage is reversible, it will require several decades and

a major reduction in the emissions.

The Ozone Hole