Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The depletion of the stratospheric ozone layer is a major environmental issue. This layer protects life on Earth from harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Certain man-made chemicals are responsible for catalytically destroying ozone molecules. The question asks to identify the main compound responsible from the given options.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
1. The depletion of the ozone layer is primarily caused by a class of compounds known as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs).
2. CFCs are very stable in the lower atmosphere, allowing them to travel up to the stratosphere.
3. In the stratosphere, they are broken down by high-energy UV radiation, which releases chlorine atoms (Cl).
4. These free chlorine atoms act as catalysts in a destructive cycle that breaks down ozone molecules (O$_3$) into ordinary oxygen molecules (O$_2$).
5. A single chlorine atom can destroy thousands of ozone molecules before it is removed from the stratosphere.
6. Let's examine the options:
- (A) CO$_2$ (Carbon dioxide) and (B) CH$_4$ (Methane) are major greenhouse gases, but they are not the primary cause of ozone depletion.
- (C) CH$_3$OH (Methanol) is an alcohol and does not significantly contribute to ozone depletion.
- (D) CF$_2$Cl$_2$ (Dichlorodifluoromethane): This is a type of chlorofluorocarbon (CFC), specifically known as CFC-12 or Freon-12. It contains chlorine and is a potent ozone-depleting substance.
Step 3: Final Answer:
The compound mainly responsible for the depletion of the ozone layer from the given options is CF$_2$Cl$_2$, a chlorofluorocarbon. Therefore, option (D) is correct.