Impact of Chlorofluorocarbons & Hydrochlorofluorocarbons on the Ozone Layer
Chlorofluorocarbons were found to be miracle substances as they are stable, non flammable, and have a low toxicity. They are used as solvents, refrigerants, and other small applications. Some other chlorine containing compounds are also helpful in some other uses. Methyl chloroform is a solvent and carbon tetrachloride is an industrial chemical. Methyl bromide is also known to be an effective soil fumigant. As all of these compounds are transported by winds and release chlorine and bromine when they break down, they damage the ozone layer. Because of how stable chlorofluorocarbons are, over 100,000 ozone molecules can be destroyed over one chlorine atom. Hydrofluorocarbons are also very harmful and have contributed to the chlorine build up. (John, 2010)
Both hydrochlorofluorocarbons and chlorofluorocarbons damage the ozone layer which also leads to the damage to plants and the contribution of global warming. In humans, by inhaling these compounds, health effects such as chest tightness and breathing difficulties may occur. High levels of hydrochlorofluorocarbons may also affect the heart, kidney, and reproductive system. If these compounds are not carefully maintained, the whole planet will be affected as there are many things that are irritated by immense amounts of these compounds. (John, 2010)
Both hydrochlorofluorocarbons and chlorofluorocarbons damage the ozone layer which also leads to the damage to plants and the contribution of global warming. In humans, by inhaling these compounds, health effects such as chest tightness and breathing difficulties may occur. High levels of hydrochlorofluorocarbons may also affect the heart, kidney, and reproductive system. If these compounds are not carefully maintained, the whole planet will be affected as there are many things that are irritated by immense amounts of these compounds. (John, 2010)