New Data from Aura's Microwave Limb Sounder (MLS) Chlorine Monoxide
The Microwave Limb Sounder (MLS) measures the chemistry of the lower stratosphere and upper troposphere. Measuring concentration of chlorine monoxide and other chemicals. Chlorine monoxide (CIO) is formed by the photolysis of CFCs in the stratosphere and the subsequent destruction of an ozone molecule, these radicals can act as a catalyst in the destruction of ozone while not being destroyed themselves.
This animation shows varied concentrations of ClO near the Antarctic pole. ClO can react with an oxygen atom to release free chlorine radical.