What is the name of the refrigerant that was known to destroy the ozone layer?

• A. Freon
• B. Ammonia
• C. Propane
• D. Isobutane

Answer: (A)

Freon is recognized as a refrigerant that has significantly contributed to the depletion of the ozone layer. This is primarily due to its composition, which includes chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs). When released into the atmosphere, these CFCs can rise to the stratosphere, where ultraviolet radiation breaks them down, releasing chlorine atoms. These chlorine atoms can then react with ozone (O3) molecules, leading to the destruction of ozone and the subsequent thinning of the ozone layer.

This connection between Freon and ozone depletion led to widespread regulation of its use, especially after the adoption of the Montreal Protocol in 1987, which aimed to phase out substances that harm the ozone layer. Other options like ammonia, propane, and isobutane do not have the same types of negative effects on the ozone layer as Freon does.