"The Antarctic Ozone Hole"

The Antarctic Ozone Hole is a seasonal thinning of the ozone layer over Antarctica, primarily occurring during Southern Hemisphere's spring (September to November). The ozone layer protects Earth from harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Its depletion is caused mainly by human-made chemicals called chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), which rise into the atmosphere and break down ozone molecules in cold polar stratospheric clouds. This process leads to a significant reduction in ozone, creating a "hole." Efforts like the Montreal Protocol have successfully reduced CFC emissions, helping to slow ozone depletion, but the recovery remains ongoing.