How are HFCs primarily characterized in terms of environmental impact?

HFCs, or hydrofluorocarbons, are primarily characterized by their significant global warming potential, which is a measure of how much heat a substance can trap in the atmosphere compared to carbon dioxide over a specified timeframe. HFCs were introduced as substitutes for ozone-depleting substances like CFCs (chlorofluorocarbons) and are utilized in refrigeration and air conditioning.

What makes HFCs particularly concerning from an environmental impact perspective is that, although they do not contribute to ozone depletion, they still have the capacity to contribute to climate change due to their greenhouse gas properties. This characteristic aligns with the choice indicating that HFCs have global warming potential but do not harm the ozone layer.

Other options incorrectly suggest either that HFCs have no environmental impact or that they significantly deplete the ozone layer, both of which misrepresent the established understanding of HFCs and their effects. While they are an improvement over substances that deplete the ozone layer, they are not devoid of environmental consequences, specifically regarding their role in global warming. This nuanced understanding is essential for professionals working with refrigerants and in the field of environmental conservation.