Question

What do CFCs stand for? Name some devices where CFCs are used. Why CFCs are considered as pollutants?

Answer 1

CFCs stands for chlorofluorocarbons. These are the chemical compounds made of chlorine, fluorine and carbon elements. CFCs are used in refrigerators, air conditioners and aerosol sprays.

CFCs are considered pollutants because they are depleting the useful ozone layer of the upper atmosphere. This happens as follows:

CFCs released into the air go up and ultimately reach high into the atmosphere where the protective ozone layer exists. The chlorofluorocarbons react with ozone gas of ozone layer and destroy it gradually.

This allows the harmful ultraviolet rays of the sun to reach the earth and can cause skin cancer, cataract and destruction of plants, including crops.