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The diagram shows recent atmospheric ozone concentrations above Antarctica - HSC - SSCE Chemistry - Question 28 - 2006 - Paper 1
Question 28
The diagram shows recent atmospheric ozone concentrations above Antarctica. Explain how this information was obtained, and outline the changes that have occurred in... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:The diagram shows recent atmospheric ozone concentrations above Antarctica - HSC - SSCE Chemistry - Question 28 - 2006 - Paper 1
Step 1
Explain how this information was obtained
Answer
The data regarding atmospheric ozone concentrations above Antarctica was primarily obtained through satellite remote sensing techniques. Satellites equipped with specialized sensors gather data by measuring the amount of ultraviolet (UV) light that is absorbed by ozone molecules in the atmosphere. This absorption is directly correlated with the ozone concentration, allowing scientists to create accurate and detailed maps of ozone levels. Additionally, atmospheric analysis from ground-based stations and soundings contributed to verifying satellite data.
Step 2
Outline the changes that have occurred in atmospheric ozone concentrations above Antarctica during the past twenty years
Answer
Over the past twenty years, atmospheric ozone concentrations above Antarctica have shown significant variations, particularly due to the impact of anthropogenic chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and weather patterns. In the early 2000s, a pronounced ozone depletion was observed, with the ozone hole reaching its peak extent. Subsequently, due to international agreements like the Montreal Protocol, the levels of CFCs in the atmosphere have gradually declined. As a result, recent data indicates a slow but steady recovery of ozone levels, suggesting a potential stabilization in the ozone layer over Antarctica after decades of depletion.