Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) are described as non-toxic, nonflammable chemicals containing carbon, chlorine, and fluorine. Which of the following is a typical use of CFCs?

• A. Refrigerants
• B. Propellants for rockets
• C. Aerosol pigments
• D. Food flavoring agents

Answer: (A)

CFCs are chosen as refrigerants because their stability, nonflammability, and low reactivity make them reliable for moving heat in a closed system. In a refrigeration cycle, the liquid absorbs a lot of heat as it vaporizes, then releases that heat when it condenses back to a liquid. This ability to absorb and release heat efficiently is what lets refrigerators and air conditioners transfer heat from one space to another. While CFCs have been used in other roles like aerosol propellants or foam-blowing agents, the typical and most common use described here is in cooling systems.