man immunity system. As more ultraviolet radiation penetrates the atmosphere, these health effects will worsen, there will be a reduction in crop yields and fish population, damage to some materials (such as plastics) and an increase in smog. Continued ozone depletion will affect everyone on this planet. In 1974, scientists discovered the basic link between CFC'S, ozone depletion, and the greenhouse effect (Miller and Mintzer). Technology and stricter standards set on the production and on the use of CFC's could reduce emission of them.
Ozone concentration varies with altitude. Most of the Ozone is found in the stratosphere anywhere from 6 to 30 miles above earth. Ozone absorbs much of the ultraviolet radiation that the sun emits in wavelengths harmful to humans and animals (UV-B). The concentrations of ozone at different altitudes also affect temperature, air movements, and the downward emission of infrared radiation, which in turn influences the radiative and meteorological processes that determine the climate (Miller and Mintzer). Therefore, if the amount of ozone in the environment changes significantly, major environmental consequences could result, among them a greenhouse warming.
Chlorofluorocarbons were first produced in the early 1930's, because a safe (non-toxic) coolant was needed for refrigeration. But by the 1950's there was a high boost in CFC production. This is because of their exceptional balance of properties: nonflammatory, lack of color, extreme stability, low toxicity, solvent power, range and stability for vapor pressures, thermodynamic characteristics and ease of manufacture (Horwood). They are also popular for their longevity. Most chemicals in the atmosphere have lifespans of a few weeks or a few months, but because of the chemical stability of the CFC'S, they can last for a century or more. This same stability allows them to reach the stratosphere, 15-50 km above the earth. It is here that...