Core Concepts and Principles Flashcards
7 cards from real EPA practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Core Concepts and Principles flashcards as text
Which element in CFC and HCFC refrigerants is primarily responsible for destroying stratospheric ozone?
Answer: Chlorine
Chlorine released by UV breakdown of CFCs and HCFCs catalytically destroys ozone molecules.
Why is the detection of fluorine in the stratosphere considered evidence that CFCs reach the ozone layer?
Answer: Fluorine has no significant natural source in the stratosphere
Because fluorine has no natural stratospheric source, its presence points to man-made compounds like CFCs.
Which health effect is linked to increased UV-B radiation caused by ozone depletion?
Answer: Increased cataracts
Higher UV-B exposure is associated with skin cancer, cataracts, and weakened immune systems.
Refrigerant R-123 belongs to which class of compounds?
Answer: HCFC
R-123 is a hydrochlorofluorocarbon containing hydrogen, chlorine, fluorine, and carbon.
Under the Clean Air Act, what is the maximum civil penalty structure for violating Section 608?
Answer: Fines assessed per day, per violation
EPA can assess substantial fines per day for each violation of Section 608.
Which international agreement established the phaseout of ozone-depleting substances such as CFCs?
Answer: Montreal Protocol
The 1987 Montreal Protocol set schedules to phase out the production of ozone-depleting substances.
Which statement about HFC refrigerants such as R-134a is correct?
Answer: They have an ozone depletion potential of zero but may not be knowingly vented
HFCs do not deplete ozone, but the venting prohibition applies to substitutes because of their global warming potential.