The ozone layer is a crucial component of Earth’s atmosphere, playing an essential role in protecting life on the planet from harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation. It is a layer of ozone (O₃) molecules located primarily in the stratosphere, about 10 to 50 kilometers above Earth's surface. The ozone layer absorbs the majority of the Sun’s high-energy ultraviolet radiation, particularly UV-B and UV-C, which can cause severe biological damage. However, human activities have led to the depletion of the ozone layer, which has raised significant concerns regarding its impact on the biosphere. The depletion of this protective layer has several far-reaching consequences for both the environment and living organisms.

### Ozone Layer Depletion

The depletion of the ozone layer occurs primarily due to human-made chemicals, such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), halons, and other ozone-depleting substances (ODS). These compounds, once widely used in refrigeration, air conditioning, aerosol propellants, and foam-blowing agents, are released into the atmosphere. When these substances reach the stratosphere, they undergo a series of photochemical reactions triggered by UV radiation.

CFCs and halons are stable compounds, which means they can remain in the atmosphere for many years without breaking down. When they reach the stratosphere, UV radiation breaks them down into chlorine (Cl) and bromine (Br) atoms, which are highly reactive. These reactive chlorine and bromine atoms then participate in catalytic cycles that break apart ozone molecules (O₃) into oxygen molecules (O₂) and individual oxygen atoms (O). A single chlorine or bromine