(a) When chlorine atoms react with atmospheric ozone, what are the products of the reaction?

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the reactants: chlorine atoms (Cl) and ozone (O_3).
2. Understand the reaction: Chlorine atoms react with ozone to form chlorine monoxide (ClO) and oxygen (O_2).
3. Write the balanced chemical equation for the reaction: Cl + O_3 \rightarrow ClO + O_2.
4. Recognize that this reaction is part of a catalytic cycle where ClO can further react with atomic oxygen to regenerate Cl, continuing the depletion of ozone.
5. Note the environmental impact: This reaction is significant in the context of ozone layer depletion, where chlorine atoms from CFCs catalyze the breakdown of ozone.

Key Concepts

Chlorine and Ozone Chemistry

Chlorine (Cl) is a highly reactive element that can participate in various chemical reactions, including those with ozone (O3). When chlorine atoms react with ozone, they can break down the ozone molecules, leading to the formation of oxygen (O2) and chlorine monoxide (ClO). This reaction is significant in atmospheric chemistry, particularly in the context of ozone depletion.

Ozone Depletion

Ozone depletion refers to the reduction of the ozone layer in the Earth's stratosphere, primarily caused by human-made chemicals like chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs). The reaction between chlorine and ozone is a key mechanism in this process, as chlorine can catalyze the breakdown of ozone, resulting in increased ultraviolet radiation reaching the Earth's surface, which can have harmful effects on living organisms.

Chemical Reaction Products

In a chemical reaction, the substances that undergo change are called reactants, while the substances formed as a result of the reaction are known as products. Understanding the products of a reaction is crucial for predicting the outcomes of chemical processes. In the case of chlorine reacting with ozone, the primary products are chlorine monoxide and oxygen, illustrating how reactants transform into new substances.