Dr Mario Molina is a Mexican chemist known for his contribution towards protecting our planet’s ozone layer. The Google Doodle celebrates the Nobel laureate's 80th birthday. Dr Molina was the co-recipient of the 1995 Nobel Prize in Chemistry for his contribution to the discovery of the harmful impact of chlorofluorocarbon (CFCs) on depleting the ozone layer.
Dr Molina was born on March 19, 1943, in Mexico City. Dr Molina completed his primary schooling in Mexico. He had a deep interest in chemistry from a very young age and this interest was nurtured by his aunt, Ester Molina, who was an established chemist. Dr Mario was so passionate about chemistry that he had converted a bathroom in his house into his laboratory before he entered high school.
Dr Molina was clear that he wanted a career in chemistry. He pursued a degree in chemical engineering from the National Autonomous University of Mexico. He then completed an advanced degree from the University of Freiburg, Germany. He was finally accepted for graduate study at the University of California where he completed his doctorate.
Dr Molina pioneered his research on the impact of CFCs after joining F. Sherwood Rowland’s laboratory in 1973. CFCs are commonly found in Aerosol sprays, refrigerators and Air Conditioners. Their research on CFCs led to the development of the Ozone Depletion Theory, which studies the impact of CFCs on the breakdown of the Ozone layer which allows harmful ultraviolent light enters the planet’s atmosphere.
His study has proved to be crucial in the development of environmental protocols around the world. The Montreal Protocol, an international treaty to protect the ozone layer was successful in banning over 100 ozone-depleting elements. It is from the research and discoveries of Dr Mario Molina that the Earth’s ozone layer is on the path of recovery.
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