CFCs are highly reactive in lower levels of the atmosphere. True or False?

CFCs are highly reactive in lower levels of the atmosphere. True or False?

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Depends on conditions
• D. Only in high concentrations

Answer: (B)

The assertion that CFCs (chlorofluorocarbons) are highly reactive in the lower atmosphere is false. CFCs are generally stable and inert in the lower atmosphere, which means they do not readily react with other chemicals. This stability allows them to persist for a long time in the atmosphere, ultimately leading to their accumulation and transportation to the upper atmosphere where they are broken down by ultraviolet (UV) radiation. The primary concern with CFCs comes from their reaction at higher altitudes, not in the lower atmosphere. In the stratosphere, CFCs can be broken down, releasing chlorine atoms that contribute to ozone depletion. Because of this persistent stability in the lower atmosphere, it is accurate to state that they are not highly reactive under those conditions. This characteristic is one reason why CFCs were widely used in applications such as refrigeration and aerosol propellants until their environmental impact became evident, leading to regulatory measures like the Montreal Protocol.

The assertion that CFCs (chlorofluorocarbons) are highly reactive in the lower atmosphere is false. CFCs are generally stable and inert in the lower atmosphere, which means they do not readily react with other chemicals. This stability allows them to persist for a long time in the atmosphere, ultimately leading to their accumulation and transportation to the upper atmosphere where they are broken down by ultraviolet (UV) radiation.

The primary concern with CFCs comes from their reaction at higher altitudes, not in the lower atmosphere. In the stratosphere, CFCs can be broken down, releasing chlorine atoms that contribute to ozone depletion. Because of this persistent stability in the lower atmosphere, it is accurate to state that they are not highly reactive under those conditions. This characteristic is one reason why CFCs were widely used in applications such as refrigeration and aerosol propellants until their environmental impact became evident, leading to regulatory measures like the Montreal Protocol.