Question 99Refrigeration/AC - QMED70% to pass
Why can CFC or HCFC refrigerants leaking into a confined space or in limited surroundings cause suffocation?
AI Explanation
The correct answer is A) Refrigerants are heavier than air and displace oxygen.
Refrigerants such as CFC (chlorofluorocarbons) and HCFC (hydrochlorofluorocarbons) are denser than air. If they leak into a confined space or area with limited ventilation, they can displace the oxygen-rich air, leading to a potentially dangerous situation where there is insufficient oxygen to breathe. This can cause suffocation, as the refrigerant gas occupies the space that would normally be filled with breathable air.
The other options are incorrect because: B) Refrigerants lighter than air would rise and not displace oxygen; C) The odor of refrigerants does not prevent breathing; and D) Refrigerants do not contain acidic substances that would affect breathing.
Related Questions
#97 Overfilling a refrigerant container is extremely dangerous because of the high pressures generated. The generation of pressure is the result of what? #98 In the presence of an open flame or hot surfaces, chlorinated fluorocarbon refrigerants decompose and form what chemical substance? #100 Excessively tight drive belts installed between a motor and a refrigeration compressor pulley may cause what condition? #101 When one belt of a multiple V-belt drive requires replacing, what will be required? #102 When installing a mechanical shaft seal on a refrigeration compressor, extreme care must be taken to prevent what from happening?