EPA 609 Technician Certification Practice Exam

The release of refrigerant into the atmosphere primarily contributes to stratospheric ozone depletion. Many refrigerants, particularly chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs), are known to contain chlorine and bromine atoms, which are highly effective at breaking down ozone molecules in the stratosphere. This ozone layer plays a crucial role in protecting life on Earth by absorbing the majority of the sun's harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation.

When these refrigerants are released, they eventually reach the stratosphere, where UV radiation breaks them down and releases chlorine and bromine. These released chemicals can destroy thousands of ozone molecules, leading to thinning of the ozone layer, which can result in increased UV radiation reaching the Earth's surface. This can lead to a variety of environmental and health issues, including skin cancer and cataracts in humans, as well as detrimental effects on ecosystems.

The other options do not reflect the known impact of refrigerant release. For instance, refrigerant release does not improve air quality or reduce global warming; rather, it poses serious threats to both ozone integrity and, depending on the specific refrigerant, may contribute to global warming as some refrigerants are potent greenhouse gases