Which of the following substances has the least ozone-depleting potential?

AChlorofluorocarbons

BHydrochlorofluorocarbons ✓ Correct

CCarbon tetrachloride

DHalons

Correct answer: (B) Hydrochlorofluorocarbons

Explanation

Hydrochlorofluorocarbons have the least ozone depleting potential among these substances.

Chlorofluorocarbons have a high ozone depleting potential near one.

Carbon tetrachloride has an ozone depleting potential above one.

Halons carry the highest ozone depleting potential, several times that of the others.

The hydrogen in hydrochlorofluorocarbons lets them break down before reaching the stratosphere.

This is why they were adopted as interim replacements for chlorofluorocarbons.

Want more like this? Create a free account to practise a full test, track your progress, and get spaced-repetition review.