|
| |
ClO, a radical species which plays an important
role in the breakdown of stratospheric ozone over Antarctica. Formed by the
photolysis of CFCs in the stratosphere and the subsequent destruction of an
ozone molecule, these radicals can act as a catalyst in the destruction of ozone
while not being destroyed themselves. ClO, reacting with a oxygen atom (present
from the Chapman Mechanism), releases a free chlorine radical once again. As a
result, one Cl atom can destroy thousands of ozone molecules before being
sequestered as HCl or another reservoir species (see chlorine nitrate).
[Earth
Island Journal; v 7; page 18; 1992.] [Chronicle of Higher Education; v 38; pages
A6-A7; 1992.]
| |
|
