Chemical Engineering Basics - Engineering

Q1:

The refrigerant freon-12 is chemically

A CCl2F2

B CCl3F

C CClF3

D CCl4F

ANS:A - CCl2F2

CCl2F2 is a chemical compound commonly known as dichlorodifluoromethane. It is a colorless, odorless gas that was historically used as a refrigerant and propellant in aerosol cans. Here's the breakdown of its chemical formula:

  • "CCl2" indicates that there are two chlorine atoms (Cl) bonded to a central carbon atom (C). The prefix "di" means "two," so it indicates two chlorine atoms.
  • "F2" indicates that there are two fluorine atoms (F) bonded to the central carbon atom.
In dichlorodifluoromethane, each carbon atom is covalently bonded to two chlorine atoms and two fluorine atoms, resulting in a stable tetrahedral molecular structure. Dichlorodifluoromethane belongs to a class of chemicals known as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs). However, due to its detrimental effects on the ozone layer when released into the atmosphere, its production and use have been largely phased out under the Montreal Protocol, an international treaty aimed at protecting the ozone layer.