A chemical used in refrigerators and air conditioners is a source of 𝐶𝑙⁻ is

Answer: A chemical used in refrigerators and air conditioners is a source of 𝐶𝑙⁻ is Freon. It is a gaseous compound used in refrigerators and air conditioners as a refrigerant. Freon absorbs heat from the surroundings and helps in cooling. Thus, the correct answer is option C.

Complete Answer:

A chemical used in refrigerators and air conditioners is a source of 𝐶𝑙⁻ is Freon.

Freon is the correct answer because it is a chemical compound used as a refrigerant in air conditioners and refrigerators. It is a type of chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) or hydrochlorofluorocarbon (HCFC). A refrigerant is a gas or fluid that can absorb heat from its surroundings to produce a cooling effect. Freon flows through the copper coils in these appliances. Inside the fridge or AC, Freon absorbs the heat from the air and changes from a low-pressure gas into a high-pressure liquid. Then it moves through different parts of the system and releases the heat outside, cooling the indoor space.

What makes Freon harmful is its chlorine content. When Freon escapes into the air and reaches the upper layer of the atmosphere, sunlight breaks it down and releases Cl⁻ ions (chlorine atoms). These chlorine atoms react with ozone (O₃) and break it into oxygen (O₂). This damages the ozone layer, which is important for protecting life on Earth from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. That’s why Freon and similar gases are being replaced by safer alternatives.

Let’s understand why the other options are incorrect. 

• Option A (CH₄ or methane) is a greenhouse gas that contributes to global warming but it doesn’t contain chlorine and is not used as a refrigerant. 
• Option B (Benzene) is a harmful chemical used in industries but has no role in cooling systems and doesn’t release Cl⁻ ions. 
• Option D (Benzopyrene) is found in smoke and is linked to cancer. It is not used in refrigeration or air conditioning and has nothing to do with chlorine or ozone layer damage.

In conclusion, Freon is the only compound among the options that is used in refrigerators and air conditioners, and it is responsible for releasing chlorine ions that harm the ozone layer. Therefore, the correct answer is C) Freon.

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