Which type of refrigerant is known as a hydrofluorocarbon (HFC)?

The correct response identifies R-410A as a hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) refrigerant. HFCs are a class of man-made compounds that replace ozone-depleting substances, such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs). R-410A, specifically, is used widely in residential and commercial air conditioning systems due to its favorable thermodynamic properties and lower environmental impact compared to older refrigerants that harm the ozone layer.

In practice, R-410A operates at a higher pressure than many traditional refrigerants, which allows for improved energy efficiency in cooling applications. Its composition enables it to meet regulatory requirements aimed at reducing ozone depletion, making it a key choice for new HVAC systems.

Other refrigerants listed, such as R-22 and R-12, are classified as hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) and chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) respectively. These older refrigerants contribute to ozone depletion and are being phased out globally due to their environmental impact. R-717, on the other hand, refers to ammonia, which is a natural refrigerant but not classified as an HFC; it's used in industrial refrigeration due to its efficiency and low global warming