Which of the following is an example of a non-ozone depleting refrigerant?

Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) are recognized as non-ozone depleting refrigerants because they do not contain chlorine, which is the element responsible for ozone layer depletion. The chemical structure of HFCs lacks the components that contribute to ozone depletion, allowing for a safer choice in refrigerants regarding environmental impact.

CFCs (chlorofluorocarbons) and HCFCs (hydrochlorofluorocarbons), on the other hand, contain chlorine. CFCs are both ozone-depleting and have been largely phased out due to their significant negative impact on the ozone layer. HCFCs contain less chlorine than CFCs and are considered less harmful, but they are still classified as ozone-depleting substances and are also being phased out under various international agreements.

This understanding emphasizes the importance of transitioning to alternatives like HFCs, which provide effective refrigeration without contributing to ozone layer degradation, making them a preferable choice in modern refrigerant applications.