Ozone depletion Flashcards
(11 cards)
What are the causes of ozone depletion?
Production of CFC’s (Chlorine, fluorine and carbon)
How do CFC’s deplete the ozone?
They react with oxygen in the ozone, breaking it down.
What is the purpose of the ozone layer?
Prevent UV radiation entering the atmosphere, short wavelength in particular
Where is the ozone being depleted?
The polar stratosphere
Where for CFC’s come from?
propellants and spray cans
What health impacts can be caused by ozone depletion?
-Cataracts (eye damage)
-Skin cancer
What are cataracts?
Eye damage from UV radiation damaging the lens of these, the retina and the cornea. (Likely with constant sun exposure)
What causes skin cancer?
When EV radiation damages DNA in skin cells, malignant melanoma’s created.
How many Australians have skin cancer?
-2/3 by the age of 70
-2000 Australians die per year
Economic costs of skin cancer?
Costs $500M in 2010
Physical factors attributed?
-Altitude
-Location (near equator)
-Outdoor career
-Time of day
(cloud cover not)
