Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) contribute to what environmental issue?

Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) are primarily known for their role in the depletion of the ozone layer, making ozone layer depletion the correct answer. CFCs are synthetic compounds that were widely used in refrigeration, aerosol propellants, and various industrial applications. When CFCs are released into the atmosphere, they eventually rise to the stratosphere, where they are broken down by ultraviolet (UV) radiation. This breakdown releases chlorine atoms, which can catalyze the destruction of ozone molecules. The ozone layer is crucial for protecting life on Earth from harmful UV radiation, and its depletion leads to increased UV exposure, which can result in health issues like skin cancer and cataracts, as well as negative effects on ecosystems.

While CFCs are also associated with greenhouse gases, air pollution, and acid rain to some extent, their most significant and well-documented environmental impact is the disruption of the ozone layer. In this context, understanding the specific mechanisms by which CFCs affect atmospheric chemistry highlights their distinct contribution to this particular environmental issue.