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Describe using chemical equations the chain reaction process whereby chlorine free radicals break down ozone in the stratosphere. - Leaving Cert Chemistry - Question A - 2005
Question A
Describe using chemical equations the chain reaction process whereby chlorine free radicals break down ozone in the stratosphere.
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Describe using chemical equations the chain reaction process whereby chlorine free radicals break down ozone in the stratosphere. - Leaving Cert Chemistry - Question A - 2005
Step 1
Step 1: Initiation Reaction
Answer
The process begins with the initiation of chlorine-free radicals in the stratosphere. This can be represented by the equation:
In this reaction, a chlorine radical reacts with ozone (O₃) to form a chlorine monoxide radical (ClO) and molecular oxygen (O₂).
Step 2
Step 2: Propagation Reaction
Answer
The ClO radical can then undergo further reactions to propagate the chain reaction. This is represented by:
Here, the chlorine monoxide radical reacts with a free oxygen atom, releasing the original chlorine radical (Cl) and producing more molecular oxygen (O₂).
Step 3
Step 3: Termination Reaction
Answer
Finally, the chain reaction can terminate with the following reaction:
This indicates that two chlorine radicals react to form a stable compound, thereby terminating the chain reaction. However, the cycle can continue as long as chlorine radicals are present.