Freons are chlorofluorocarbon compounds of methane and ethane. They are stable, unreactive, non-toxic, non-corrosive, and easily liquefiable gases. Freon 12 (CCl₂F₂) is a common industrial freon used in refrigeration and air conditioning, produced from tetrachloromethane by the Swarts reaction.
What are freons, and what characteristics make them suitable for industrial use in aerosol propellants and refrigeration?
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Freons are a group of chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) that were commonly used as refrigerants and aerosol propellants. Their suitability for industrial use arises from several characteristics. Freons are non-toxic, non-flammable, and chemically inert, making them safe for various applications. They have low boiling points, allowing them to absorb and release heat efficiently in refrigeration systems. However, their use has been phased out due to their role in ozone depletion, as chlorine atoms released from freons in the atmosphere contribute to the breakdown of ozone molecules in the stratosphere, leading to the development of more environmentally friendly alternatives.