Ozone Depletion: The Light Shines Through

Ozone Depletion: The Light Shines Through

Above the earth, approximately 30-50 kilometers, a layer of stable oxygen atoms covers the stratosphere, this called the ozone layer. It protects “all life” from the sun’s harmful radiation. (US EPA). The ozone layer is very powerful; it protects the earth from dangerous UVB rays from the sun. (Frank 13) If the rays from the sun were to pass through the atmosphere it would be devastating because they have the ability to destroy skin cells in humans and animals. In 1974 two scientists discovered that certain commonly used compounds were destroying the protective ozone: chlorine, fluorine and bromine. Researchers have found out that the “stratospheric ozone has declined for at least two decades, with losses about 10% in the winter and spring, and 5% in the summer and autumn.” (Impacts of Depletion) As the ozone layer’s power is declining, more and more UVB rays are entering the atmosphere and eventually we will have no protect...