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 pressurizing agents in aerosol cans Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

QUESTION

Hard

Environment & Ecology

Prelims 2012

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

in the production of plastic foams
in the production of tubeless tyres
in cleaning certain electronic components
as pressurizing agents in aerosol cans

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Select an option to attempt

Explanation

Statement 1 is Correct: Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) were extensively used as blowing agents in the manufacture of plastic foams, including expanded polystyrene and polyurethane foams used for thermal insulation and packaging.

Statement 2 is Incorrect: CFCs are not used in the production of tubeless tyres. The manufacturing of tyres involves a process called vulcanization, which uses sulfur to create cross-links between rubber polymers; CFCs have no chemical role in this process.

Statement 3 is Correct: CFCs, particularly CFC-113, were widely used as solvents for cleaning electronic components and circuit boards because they are non-flammable, stable, and leave no residue after evaporation.

Statement 4 is Correct: CFCs were commonly used as propellants or pressurizing agents in aerosol spray cans for products such as hairsprays, deodorants, and insecticides before being phased out under the Montreal Protocol.

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