Which of the following is the cause of depletion in the Ozone layer?  

The primary cause of depletion in the ozone layer is the release of human-made substances known as ozone-depleting substances (ODS) and the major contributors to ozone layer depletion are chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs).

Key Points

•  CFCs are mostly used in various industrial processes, air conditioning, refrigeration, and aerosol propellants.
• Once released, these compounds are stable enough to reach the stratosphere, where ultraviolet (UV) radiation breaks them down, releasing chlorine and bromine.
• These free radicals then participate in reactions that lead to the breakdown of ozone molecules, contributing to the thinning of the ozone layer.
• International efforts, such as the Montreal Protocol, have been successful in phasing out or significantly reducing the production and consumption of ozone-depleting substances, leading to the gradual recovery of the ozone layer.