CFC: meaning, definitions and examples

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CFC

 

[ ˌsiːˌɛfˈsiː ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

chemical compound

CFC, or chlorofluorocarbon, refers to a class of chemicals that were widely used as refrigerants, propellants in aerosol applications, and solvents. These compounds have been found to contribute to the depletion of the ozone layer when released into the atmosphere.

Synonyms

Freon, chlorofluorocarbon, refrigerant

Examples of usage

  • The use of CFCs in air conditioning has decreased significantly due to environmental regulations.
  • Scientists discovered that CFCs released from spray cans were damaging the ozone layer.
  • Many countries have implemented bans on the production of CFCs to protect the environment.

Word origin

The term CFC was first coined in the 1920s when chemists sought to create stable, non-toxic chemicals for refrigerants and aerosol propellants. Chlorofluorocarbons were synthesized by replacing hydrogen atoms in hydrocarbons with chlorine and fluorine atoms, which resulted in a group of compounds that were effective but posed environmental hazards when released into the atmosphere. The popularization of these compounds in the mid-20th century coincided with the boom of consumer products requiring refrigeration and aerosol operation. However, in the 1980s, scientists discovered the adverse effects CFCs had on the ozone layer, leading to global initiatives such as the Montreal Protocol in 1987 aimed at phasing out their production and use. Today, CFCs are largely banned across the globe, and alternatives have been developed to mitigate their environmental impact.