Which of the following describes HFC-134a?

Which of the following describes HFC-134a?

• A. A natural refrigerant.
• B. A refrigerant known for its low global warming potential.
• C. A widely used refrigerant with a high global warming potential.
• D. A refrigerant that is safe to vent into the atmosphere.

Answer: (C)

HFC-134a, also known as tetrafluoroethane, is indeed widely used in various refrigeration applications, particularly in automotive air conditioning systems and stationary refrigeration. One of the most critical aspects of HFC-134a is its global warming potential (GWP), which is considered to be relatively high compared to other refrigerants. The GWP of HFC-134a is approximately 1,430 times that of carbon dioxide over a 100-year period, making it a concern in discussions about climate change and environmental impact. The other options address characteristics that do not align with HFC-134a's profile. For instance, natural refrigerants such as ammonia and carbon dioxide are often discussed in contrast to synthetic refrigerants like HFC-134a, which is not a natural refrigerant. Similarly, HFC-134a does not possess a low global warming potential; instead, it is one of the substances that has prompted a move toward alternative refrigerants with lower GWP. Furthermore, the notion of venting HFC-134a is incorrect; regulations discourage the release of refrigerants into the atmosphere due to their potential harmful effects on the environment. In summary, HFC-134a is recognized for its widespread use combined

HFC-134a, also known as tetrafluoroethane, is indeed widely used in various refrigeration applications, particularly in automotive air conditioning systems and stationary refrigeration. One of the most critical aspects of HFC-134a is its global warming potential (GWP), which is considered to be relatively high compared to other refrigerants. The GWP of HFC-134a is approximately 1,430 times that of carbon dioxide over a 100-year period, making it a concern in discussions about climate change and environmental impact.

The other options address characteristics that do not align with HFC-134a's profile. For instance, natural refrigerants such as ammonia and carbon dioxide are often discussed in contrast to synthetic refrigerants like HFC-134a, which is not a natural refrigerant. Similarly, HFC-134a does not possess a low global warming potential; instead, it is one of the substances that has prompted a move toward alternative refrigerants with lower GWP. Furthermore, the notion of venting HFC-134a is incorrect; regulations discourage the release of refrigerants into the atmosphere due to their potential harmful effects on the environment.

In summary, HFC-134a is recognized for its widespread use combined