Chlorine gas is commonly used in the production of which of the following industrial compounds?
Answer Details
Chlorine gas is commonly used in the production of chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs). CFCs are industrial compounds that were widely used in the past as refrigerants, propellants in aerosol cans, and as solvents. However, due to their harmful effects on the ozone layer, their production and use have been greatly reduced.
Chlorine gas, when combined with carbon and fluorine atoms, forms CFCs. These compounds are stable and can remain in the atmosphere for a long time, causing damage to the ozone layer. The chlorine atoms in CFCs react with ozone (O3) molecules, breaking them apart and depleting the ozone layer.
Despite the harmful environmental impact of CFCs, it is important to understand their historical uses and the role chlorine gas plays in their production.