Ozone depletion and Montreal Protocol – UGC NET Question

Statement D is the only wrong statement because ozone layer depletion clearly affects human health and ecosystems through increased UV exposure. Statements A, B and C correctly describe the role of CFCs and halons, protective function of the ozone layer and the purpose of the Montreal Protocol. Increased UV-B can cause skin cancer, cataracts and harm to phytoplankton and terrestrial plants. Therefore, the combination that identifies D alone as wrong is the correct answer.

Option A:
Option A is correct because it isolates statement D as the single wrong statement while recognising that A, B and C are scientifically well established. It reflects the consensus that ozone depletion has serious consequences for health and ecosystems. This option therefore matches the requirement to select the wrong statement or statements.

Option B:
Option B is incorrect because it treats both A and D as wrong. Statement A is correct since CFCs and halons are classic ozone-depleting substances identified in atmospheric chemistry studies. Misclassifying A as wrong shows a misunderstanding of the basic cause of ozone depletion.

Option C:
Option C is incorrect as it considers B and D to be wrong together. Statement B is in fact correct because the ozone layer’s filtering of UV radiation is a fundamental part of atmospheric science. Including B among wrong statements makes this combination unacceptable.

Option D:
Option D is incorrect because it treats C and D as wrong. Statement C accurately summarises the main purpose of the Montreal Protocol, which is a key treaty in global environmental governance. Since only D is wrong, combining it with C produces an incorrect option.