UPSC Prelims 2023·GS1·science-and-technology·materials and robotics

Consider the following: 1. Aerosols 2. Foam agents 3. Fire retardants 4. Lubricants In the making of how many of the above are hydrofluorocarbons used?

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Last updated 8 Jul 2026, 4:39 pm IST
  1. AOnly one
  2. BOnly two
  3. COnly threeCorrect
  4. DAll four

Explanation

Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) are potent greenhouse gases that were widely adopted as substitutes for ozone-depleting substances like CFCs and HCFCs, primarily in refrigeration and air conditioning. Let's examine their uses in the given options:

  1. Aerosols: HFCs are commonly used as propellants in various aerosol products, including medical inhalers and some consumer aerosols.

  2. Foam agents: HFCs are used as blowing agents in the production of foams (e.g., insulation foams, packaging foams) to create their cellular structure.

  3. Fire retardants: Some HFCs, particularly those like HFC-227ea (also known as FM-200), are used as gaseous fire suppression agents in fire protection systems.

  4. Lubricants: HFCs themselves are generally not used as lubricants. Lubricants are typically oils, greases, or other substances designed to reduce friction between moving parts. While some specialized lubricants might contain fluorine, HFCs are primarily known for their refrigerant, propellant, or blowing agent properties, not as lubricants.

Therefore, HFCs are used in aerosols, foam agents, and fire retardants. So, 'Only three' is the correct answer.

science-and-technology: Consider the following: 1. Aerosols 2. Foam agents 3. Fire retardants 4. Lubricants In the making of how many of the abo
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