fluorocarbons
nounUK /ˌflʊərəʊˈkɑːbənz/
US /ˌflʊroʊˈkɑːrbənz/
Fluorocarbons are human-made chemicals made of carbon and fluorine that are used in things like fridges and sprays.
Scientists study fluorocarbons because they can stay in the air for a very long time.
RELATED WORDS
OTHER MEANINGS
2. A group of chemical compounds in which fluorine atoms are bonded to carbon atoms.
The lab synthesized several fluorocarbons for the experiment.
3. Gases used as refrigerants and propellants that can contribute to global warming.
Countries agreed to phase out certain fluorocarbons to protect the climate.
4. Compounds once widely used in air conditioning and aerosol sprays.
Older air conditioners often contained fluorocarbons that harm the ozone layer.