what are cfcs

Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) are a class of organic compounds that contain carbon, fluorine, and chlorine. They are non-toxic, nonflammable, and easily converted between liquid and gaseous states. CFCs were widely used in the manufacturing industry, including in the production of aerosol sprays, plastic foams, cleaning solvents, packing materials, refrigerants, and air conditioner systems. However, CFCs were eventually discovered to pose a serious environmental threat. Studies showed that CFCs, once released into the atmosphere, accumulate in the stratosphere, where they contribute to the depletion of the ozone layer. The ozone layer shields life on Earth from the harmful effects of the Suns ultraviolet radiation. CFCs decompose in the upper atmosphere or stratosphere, releasing inorganic chlorine that destroys ozone. CFCs were phased out via the Montreal Protocol due to their part in ozone depletion.