Which of the following gases has the highest global warming potential (GWP) over a 20‑year time horizon?
Answer
Hydrofluorocarbon‑23 (HFC‑23)
The correct answer is Hydrofluorocarbon‑23 (HFC‑23) — Choose the option containing HFC‑23.
Step-by-step solution
- Recall GWP values over 20 years: CO₂ ≈ 1, CH₄ ≈ 84, N₂O ≈ 264, HFC‑23 ≈ 12,500.
- Compare these numbers; the largest is for HFC‑23.
- Choose the option containing HFC‑23.
Common mistake: Selecting carbon dioxide as the highest because it is most common.
Concept tested: Greenhouse gases potency
Published · How this solution was prepared and checked
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