Which metric describes the potential of a refrigerant to contribute to global warming?

Which metric describes the potential of a refrigerant to contribute to global warming?

• A. Global warming potential
• B. Ozone depletion potential
• C. Specific heat
• D. Viscosity

Answer: (A)

Global warming potential is the metric that describes how much a refrigerant can contribute to climate warming over a chosen time horizon relative to carbon dioxide. It combines how effectively the gas traps heat with how long it stays in the atmosphere, making it the best way to compare the climate impact of different refrigerants. The ozone depletion potential relates to effects on the ozone layer, not warming. Specific heat is about how much energy is needed to raise a substance’s temperature, and viscosity concerns a fluid’s flow resistance—neither directly indicate a refrigerant’s warming impact.

Global warming potential is the metric that describes how much a refrigerant can contribute to climate warming over a chosen time horizon relative to carbon dioxide. It combines how effectively the gas traps heat with how long it stays in the atmosphere, making it the best way to compare the climate impact of different refrigerants. The ozone depletion potential relates to effects on the ozone layer, not warming. Specific heat is about how much energy is needed to raise a substance’s temperature, and viscosity concerns a fluid’s flow resistance—neither directly indicate a refrigerant’s warming impact.