Ozone & Protocols — Set 2
Environment · ओज़ोन और प्रोटोकॉल · Questions 11–20 of 50
Which of the following is a major natural source of ozone-depleting chlorine in the atmosphere?
Correct Answer: C. Oceanic sea spray
Sea spray releases large amounts of methyl chloride, a natural ozone-depleting substance. While natural sources exist, they are generally balanced by natural production of ozone. The current crisis is primarily driven by man-made synthetic chemicals.
Which international body provides the scientific assessments that guide the decisions of the Montreal Protocol?
Correct Answer: D. WMO and UNEP
The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) and UN Environment Programme (UNEP) produce regular 'Scientific Assessment of Ozone Depletion' reports. These reports evaluate the state of the ozone layer and the impact of regulated chemicals. This scientific foundation ensures that the protocol remains effective and updated.
What is the chemical formula for an ozone molecule?
Correct Answer: C. O3
Ozone is an allotrope of oxygen consisting of three oxygen atoms bonded together. It is an unstable gas that is much less common than the standard O2 we breathe. Its unique structure allows it to absorb specific wavelengths of ultraviolet light.
Halons, which are powerful ozone-depleting substances, were primarily used in which application?
Correct Answer: A. Fire extinguishers
Halons are bromine-containing gases that were widely used in fire suppression systems because they leave no residue. Bromine is even more effective at destroying ozone than chlorine. Most halon production was phased out globally by 2010.
Which type of clouds in the polar regions provide a surface for the chemical reactions that deplete ozone?
Correct Answer: C. Polar Stratospheric Clouds
Polar Stratospheric Clouds (PSCs), or nacreous clouds, form only in extremely cold temperatures. These clouds provide the ice surface where reservoir chlorine is converted into reactive forms. Their presence is a key reason why depletion is so severe at the poles.
The Montreal Protocol is unique because it is the first treaty in UN history to achieve what status?
Correct Answer: D. Universal ratification
The Montreal Protocol is the first and only treaty to be ratified by all 198 UN member states. This universal participation is a major factor in its success as an environmental agreement. It demonstrates how global cooperation can solve cross-border environmental threats.
Which gas is used as a safer alternative to CFCs but is now being phased down because of its global warming potential?
Correct Answer: A. HFCs
Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) were introduced as ozone-friendly replacements for CFCs. However, they were later found to be potent greenhouse gases that contribute to climate change. The Kigali Amendment was added to the Montreal Protocol specifically to address HFCs.
What is the typical altitude range where the 'Ozone Shield' is most concentrated?
Correct Answer: A. 15 to 35 km
The protective ozone layer is found in the lower part of the stratosphere. Its concentration varies with latitude and season but generally peaks around 25 km. This altitude allows it to intercept UV radiation before it hits the dense lower atmosphere.
Which scientist, along with Mario Molina and Paul Crutzen, won a Nobel Prize for explaining ozone depletion?
Correct Answer: D. F. Sherwood Rowland
Rowland and Molina discovered in 1974 that CFCs could destroy the ozone layer. Their work initially faced heavy industry opposition but was eventually validated by field measurements. They were awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1995.
In which city was the Multilateral Fund for the Implementation of the Montreal Protocol established?
Correct Answer: A. London
The Multilateral Fund was established in 1991 during the London meeting of the parties. Its purpose is to provide financial and technical assistance to developing countries to phase out ozone-depleting substances. This fund is essential for ensuring global compliance with the protocol.