Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs): UPSC Prelims PYQ 2012

Consider the following statements: Chlorofluorocarbons, known as ozone depleting substances, are used

1. In the production of plastic foams
2. In the production of tubeless tyres
3. In cleaning certain electronic components
4. As pressurising agents in aerosol cans

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

1. 1, 2 and 3 only
2. 4 only
3. 1, 3 and 4 only
4. 1, 2, 3 and 4

Explanation

Option (c) is correct

• Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), known as ozone-depleting substances, have been used in various applications. They are employed in the production of plastic foams as blowing agents and in cleaning certain electronic components due to their non-flammable nature. Additionally, CFCs were commonly used as pressurizing agents in aerosol cans. However, they are not used in the production of tubeless tyres.
• CFCs were phased out via the Montreal Protocol due to their part in ozone depletion.

Answer: (c) 1, 3 and 4; Difficulty Level: Hard