Question

The industrial usage of fluorocarbons is very high because (a) they are unstable (b) they are gases (c) they can be manufactured cheaply (d) their reactivity is high

Short answer

Fluorocarbons are used extensively because they can be manufactured cheaply (option c).

Step-by-step solution

Understanding Fluorocarbons

Fluorocarbons are compounds that are composed of carbon and fluorine atoms. They are widely used in various industries, including refrigeration, air conditioning, and as propellants in aerosol cans.

Analyzing the Options

Look at the options provided: (a) they are unstable, (b) they are gases, (c) they can be manufactured cheaply, and (d) their reactivity is high. Determine which characteristic most contributes to their high industrial usage.

Evaluating Stability and Reactivity

Option (a) suggests instability, but fluorocarbons are known for their stability, which makes them desirable for industrial uses. Option (d) suggests high reactivity, but their low reactivity is what makes them stable and useful as refrigerants and propellants.

Investigating Gas State and Manufacturing Cost

Option (b) states they are gases, which can be true for some fluorocarbons like CFCs, but they are available in various states depending on the compound. Option (c) asserts they can be manufactured cheaply, a significant factor that affects their cost-efficiency and popularity in industrial applications.

Conclusion and Selection

Based on the options, fluorocarbons are primarily appealing due to their combination of stability and cost-effectiveness, but this question specifically seeks the major reason for high usage. Stability is implied by their low reactivity; however, the ability to manufacture them cheaply (option c) plays a crucial role in their widespread industrial usage.

Key concepts

Industrial Applications

Fluorocarbons have found a place in a variety of industrial applications, owing to their unique properties. These compounds are extensively used in:

• Refrigeration: Fluorocarbons serve as coolants in refrigerators and air conditioning systems.
• Aerosol Propellants: They propel substances in aerosol cans without reacting with them.

Their widespread use stems from their excellent thermal stability, non-flammability, and effective solvency properties.
Fluorocarbons act as strong insulators, enhancing the efficiency of electronic components and cables.
Furthermore, their chemical inertness makes them suitable for use in sensitive environments, where reactivity needs to be suppressed. As the industry continues to expand, the demand for fluorocarbon-based products persists because of their versatility and functional benefits.

Stability of Fluorocarbons

One of the hallmark features of fluorocarbons is their remarkable stability. This stability arises from the strong carbon-fluorine bonds present in these compounds.
Fluorine is one of the most electronegative elements, creating a strong bond with carbon that is resistant to breaking. This makes fluorocarbons less reactive, which is often desired in industrial settings.

• Long-lasting: Products made with fluorocarbons tend to have a longer lifespan, thanks to this stability.
• Versatile: Their non-reactive nature makes them ideal for use as solvents and insulating materials.

Also, the inert nature reduces the risk of chemical reactions under normal usage conditions.
This quality is particularly valuable in applications like refrigerants and aerosol propellants, where stability is essential to performance and safety.

Fluorocarbon Manufacturing Processes

The process of manufacturing fluorocarbons is both cost-effective and efficient, contributing to their popularity. Most fluorocarbons are synthesized through a chemical reaction that substitutes hydrogen atoms in hydrocarbons with fluorine atoms.
This reaction usually takes place under controlled conditions, ensuring safety and precision.

• Production Efficiency: Modern techniques have minimized the energy and resources required, lowering overall production costs.
• Environmental Considerations: While manufacturing processes have traditionally involved environmental concerns, advancements have helped reduce harmful emissions.

Moreover, the versatility in their production allows for the creation of different fluorocarbon compounds suitable for various applications.
Through continuous innovation and technological improvements, manufacturing plants have managed to maintain a balance between cost-efficiency and environmental responsibility.
This ensures that fluorocarbons remain a preferred choice in industries around the world.