AP Environmental Science Flashcards: Stratospheric Ozone Depletion
Written by AP Content Team, Verified for 2026 AP Exams, Last updated: May 2026
Review key ideas with interactive flashcards. This set includes 10 cards to help you master important concepts.
A patient is diagnosed with cataracts. What environmental problem, caused by CFCs, could be a contributing factor?
Stratospheric ozone depletion, caused by anthropogenic factors like CFCs, increases UV exposure which can lead to cataracts.
Card 1 of 10
All Flashcards (10)
A patient is diagnosed with cataracts. What environmental problem, caused by CFCs, could be a contributing factor?
Stratospheric ozone depletion, caused by anthropogenic factors like CFCs, increases UV exposure which can lead to cataracts.
What are the two main categories of causes for stratospheric ozone depletion?
Stratospheric ozone depletion is caused by anthropogenic factors, such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), and natural factors.
What are two specific health risks to humans from increased exposure to UV rays due to ozone depletion?
Increased exposure to UV rays can lead to skin cancer and cataracts in humans.
Identify a major anthropogenic (human-caused) factor responsible for stratospheric ozone depletion.
Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) are a key anthropogenic factor that causes the depletion of the stratospheric ozone layer.
If ozone depletion worsens, what specific health trend might be observed in human populations?
An increase in the incidence of skin cancer and cataracts could be observed due to higher levels of UV radiation reaching the surface.
Term: Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs)
CFCs are an example of an anthropogenic factor that causes the depletion of the stratospheric ozone layer.
Explain the relationship between stratospheric ozone levels and the amount of UV radiation at Earth's surface.
There is an inverse relationship: as stratospheric ozone decreases, the amount of UV rays reaching the Earth's surface increases.
What is the primary importance of the stratospheric ozone layer to life on Earth?
The stratospheric ozone layer is essential for the evolution of life on Earth and the continued health and survival of all life.
How is the historical evolution of life on Earth linked to the ozone layer?
The stratospheric ozone layer's presence was important to the evolution of life, as it protected early organisms from harmful UV radiation.
What is the direct environmental effect of a decrease in stratospheric ozone?
A decrease in stratospheric ozone increases the amount of UV rays that reach the Earth’s surface.