Question

Identify the incorrect statement from the following:

• A. Oxides of nitrogen in the atmosphere can cause depletion of the ozone layer.
• B. Ozone absorbs the intense ultraviolet radiation of the Sun.
• C. Depletion of the ozone layer is because of its chemical reactions with chlorofluoroalkanes.
• D. Ozone absorbs infrared radiation.

Hint:

Ozone absorbs UV radiation, not infrared, unlike greenhouse gases like CO2​ and CH4​.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

To solve the problem of identifying the incorrect statement from the given options, we need to examine each statement based on scientific facts related to ozone and atmospheric chemistry.

• Option 1: Oxides of nitrogen in the atmosphere can cause depletion of the ozone layer.
  Oxides of nitrogen (NOx) are known to catalytically destroy ozone in the stratosphere, contributing to ozone depletion. Thus, this statement is correct.
• Option 2: Ozone absorbs the intense ultraviolet radiation of the Sun.
  Ozone is known for its ability to absorb the Sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays, particularly UV-B and UV-C, which are harmful to living organisms. This protective feature is a fundamental characteristic of ozone. This statement is correct.
• Option 3: Depletion of the ozone layer is because of its chemical reactions with chlorofluoroalkanes.
  Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), a type of chlorofluoroalkane, are a major cause of ozone depletion. They break down in the stratosphere, releasing chlorine atoms that lead to ozone destruction. This statement accurately describes the phenomenon and is correct.
• Option 4: Ozone absorbs infrared radiation.
  Ozone primarily absorbs UV radiation and does not significantly absorb infrared radiation. The statement incorrectly attributes infrared absorption to ozone. This is the incorrect statement.

Therefore, the incorrect statement is: Ozone absorbs infrared radiation.

This analysis shows our understanding that ozone plays a crucial role in protecting the Earth from harmful UV radiation, and its depletion is linked to various pollutants like CFCs and NOx, rather than having an impact on infrared radiation.