The area termed as the ozone hole is known to mainly develop over ______.

The Correct answer is Antarctica.

Key Points

• The ozone hole refers to a significant depletion of the ozone layer, mainly observed over Antarctica.
• It occurs during the spring season (September to November) in the Southern Hemisphere.
• The phenomenon is primarily caused by chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and other ozone-depleting substances (ODS) released into the atmosphere.
• In the cold temperatures over Antarctica, polar stratospheric clouds (PSCs) form, providing the surface for chemical reactions that release chlorine and bromine, which destroy ozone molecules.
• The ozone layer, located in the stratosphere, protects life on Earth by absorbing harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the Sun.
• Depletion of the ozone layer can lead to increased exposure to UV radiation, causing skin cancer, cataracts, and harm to marine life and crops.
• The discovery of the ozone hole led to global action, including the adoption of the Montreal Protocol (1987), which aims to phase out the production and use of ozone-depleting substances.

 Additional Information

• India
  • India does not experience an ozone hole because of its geographical location near the equator, where ozone depletion is not as significant as in polar regions.
  • However, India has been actively participating in implementing the Montreal Protocol to reduce ozone-depleting substances.
• Africa
  • The continent of Africa does not have the extreme cold conditions required for the formation of polar stratospheric clouds, which are crucial for ozone depletion.
  • While some parts of Africa experience high UV radiation, it is not due to an ozone hole but rather because of the region's proximity to the equator.
• America
  • America, especially North America, has seen instances of ozone depletion, but it is not as severe as in Antarctica.
  • The ozone layer over America has shown signs of recovery due to the implementation of the Montreal Protocol.