Question

Which of the following is responsible for depletion of ozone layer in stratosphere?

• A. \(\text{N}_{2}\text{O}_{5}\)
• B. \(\text{NO}_{3}\)
• C. \(\text{NO}_{2}\)
• D. \(\text{NO}\)

Hint:

Nitric oxide from high-flying aircraft reacts with ozone and is regenerated in a cycle.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Elimination approach
$\text{N}_{2}\text{O}_{5}$ and $\text{NO}_{3}$ are not the stratospheric species that attack ozone in this cycle.

Step 2: Regeneration
$\text{NO}_{2}$ is a product of the ozone-destroying step, not the destroyer. NO is the one regenerated, so it acts as a catalyst.

Step 3: Remaining option
NO is the species responsible, option D.

Final Answer:
The ozone-depleting species is NO. \[ \boxed{\text{(D) }\text{NO}} \]