What breaks down CFCs and releases chlorine ions in the stratosphere?

The breakdown of chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) in the stratosphere is significantly influenced by ultraviolet radiation. When CFC molecules are exposed to UV radiation, they absorb this energy, which causes them to break apart, releasing chlorine atoms. These chlorine atoms can then participate in chemical reactions that lead to the depletion of ozone in the stratosphere.

Ultraviolet radiation is particularly effective in breaking the carbon-chlorine bonds within CFCs because the energy of UV rays corresponds to the energy required to break these bonds. As a result, the chlorine released can catalyze reactions that destroy ozone molecules, leading to the formation of the ozone hole.

Other types of radiation, such as visible light, X-ray radiation, and infrared radiation, do not have the appropriate energy levels to effectively break down CFCs in the same manner. Thus, ultraviolet radiation is the precise catalyst for the chemical reactions that release chlorine from CFCs in the stratosphere.