What specific molecules catalyze ozone destruction after X-rays/gamma rays strike the atmosphere?

Nitrogen oxides ($ ext{NO}_x$)

The destruction of the protective ozone layer ($ ext{O}_3$) is triggered when intense high-energy radiation, specifically X-rays and gamma rays emanating from a powerful supernova, penetrates the upper atmosphere. These high-energy photons collide with normal nitrogen and oxygen molecules present in the atmosphere. These collisions initiate chemical reactions that produce nitrogen oxides ($ ext{NO}_x$). Nitrogen oxides act as highly efficient catalysts in a chain reaction cycle that rapidly breaks down ozone molecules, converting them into molecular oxygen. Since ozone is the primary shield against biologically damaging solar ultraviolet (UV) radiation, its depletion exposes surface life to lethal doses of UV light.