Why are HFCs often preferred over CFCs?

HFCs, or hydrofluorocarbons, are often preferred over CFCs, or chlorofluorocarbons, primarily because they do not contribute to ozone depletion. This is a significant factor as CFCs were found to be harmful to the ozone layer, which protects the Earth from harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation. The depletion of the ozone layer has serious environmental consequences, including increased skin cancer rates and damage to various ecosystems.

HFCs, while still considered greenhouse gases and potentially harmful to the climate, do not have the ozone-depleting chlorine atoms that CFCs do. This makes HFCs a more environmentally friendly option in terms of protecting the ozone layer, which is why their use has increased in various applications including refrigeration and air conditioning, as regulations have phased out CFCs.

Attributes like cost, lifespan, and toxicity are relevant but do not directly address the crucial environmental issue of ozone depletion, which is the central concern when comparing these two types of compounds. HFCs' lack of impact on the ozone layer makes them a preferred alternative despite their own environmental challenges.