Everyone knows about the functioning of refrigerators and air conditioners . But only some people know real truth behind this luxury.
What is required for cooling ?
For cooling refrigerants are required. Most frequently used refrigerants are chloroflurocarbon (CFC)
Ozone
It is a naturally occurring gas.
These refrigerants has bad impact on our environment specially on ozone layer.This layer is present in stratosphere between 15 km to 30 km above earth and protect us from harmful ultraviolet radiations.
What destroys the ozone layer the most?
Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) have been identified as the main cause of the destruction to the ozone layer, but there are also compounds containing bromine, other halogen compounds and also nitrogen oxides which cause damage.
Due to Day by day release of refrigerants ozone layer is depleted specially from Antarctica which is a big concern. Because ultraviolet radiations have capability to ulter the genetic makeup of humans, animals and plants which leads to the disastrous change in many species.
It also have role in global warming because one kilogram of refrigerant has same green house impact as two tonnes of carbon dioxide which is equivalent to running of your car or bus for six months.
What are chlorofluorocarbons?
Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) are nontoxic, nonflammable chemicals containing atoms of carbon, chlorine, and fluorine. They are used in the manufacture of aerosol sprays, blowing agents for foams and packing materials, as solvents, and as refrigerants.
What does chlorofluorocarbons do to humans?
CFCs contribute to the loss of the protective ozone layer, which blocks ultraviolet rays from the sun. This exposes more people to UV radiation, which can cause skin cancer. According to the University of Georgia, one in five Americans develops skin cancer in his or her lifetime.
What gas replaces CFCs?
Two of the chemical classes under consideration for replacing CFCs are hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) and hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs). HCFCs contribute to the destruction of stratospheric ozone, but to a much lesser extent than CFCs.
SGGs ?
Synthetic green house gases are commonly used as replacement for some ozone depletion substance in industries. They do not deplete the ozone but contribute to global warming .
Are there still holes in the ozone layer?
Today, the ozone hole still exists, forming every year over Antarctica in the spring. It closes up again over the summer as stratospheric air from lower latitudes is mixed in, patching it up until the following spring when the cycle begins again.
Why is the ozone hole over Antarctica?
This damage occurs due to the presence of chlorine and bromine from ozone depleting substances in the stratosphere and the specific meteorological conditions over the Antarctic. The Antarctic is much colder than the rest of the planet and experiences consistent strong winds.
Can humans survive without the ozone layer?
Life couldn't exist without this protective ozone, which is also called the “ozone layer.” The sun gives off light, heat, and other types of radiation. Too much UV (ultraviolet) radiation can cause skin cancer, cataracts, and harm plants and animals.
What we can do ?
We need to understand this concern at individual level. So that we can manage this issues by using coolers instid of air conditioners and by not disposing distructed refrigerators in open fields.
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