EPA 608 609 Ozone Depletion and Regulations 3

Question 1

Which class of refrigerants has the highest ozone depletion potential and was scheduled for earliest phaseout?

Accepted Answer

CFCs

Answer

CFCs have the highest ODP and were phased out first.

Question 2

HCFCs like R-22 were designed as interim replacements because they have what property?

Accepted Answer

Lower ozone depletion potential than CFCs

Answer

HCFCs break down more easily, giving them a lower ODP than CFCs.

Question 3

As of regulations, the production and import of HCFC-22 (R-22) for new equipment was banned beginning in which year?

Accepted Answer

2010

Answer

Production of R-22 for new equipment was banned starting January 1, 2010.

Question 4

Which refrigerant type has zero ozone depletion potential but can still have a high global warming potential?

Accepted Answer

HFCs

Answer

HFCs contain no chlorine so have zero ODP, but many have high GWP.

Question 5

Why are CFCs so destructive to the ozone layer compared to natural compounds?

Accepted Answer

They are chemically stable and rise intact to the stratosphere

Answer

Their stability lets them reach the stratosphere where UV breaks them down to release chlorine.

EPA 608 609 Practice Test