APFIVE In an experiment to assess the effectiveness of the Montreal Protocol in reducing ozone-depleting substances, researchers measured the concentration of these substances in the lower atmosphere before and after the protocol’s implementation. They found no significant decrease and concluded that the protocol was ineffective. What was the conceptual mistake in the experimental design?
Measuring concentrations in the lower atmosphere, not the stratosphere where ozone depletion primarily occurs.
Not considering the long atmospheric lifetime of ozone-depleting substances, which can delay observable decreases in their concentration.
Ignoring the global nature of ozone depletion and focusing on localized measurements, which may not reflect overall trends.
Failing to account for the increase in alternative substances that, while not ozone-depleting, could still impact the ozone layer.