Which of the following polyhalogen compounds is used in the production of the freon refrigerant R-22?  

Key Points

• Chloroform is used in the production of the freon refrigerant R-22.
• R-22, also known as HCFC-22, is a hydrochlorofluorocarbon that has been widely used as a refrigerant in air conditioning and refrigeration systems.
• The production of R-22 involves the reaction of chloroform with hydrogen fluoride.
• R-22 has been phased out in many countries due to its ozone-depleting potential, but it was historically significant in the refrigeration industry.

Additional Information

• Chloroform (CHCl₃) is a colorless, sweet-smelling organic compound that is used as a solvent and in the production of various chemicals.
• It was once used as an anesthetic but has been replaced by safer alternatives due to its toxicity and potential for causing liver and kidney damage.
• The use of chloroform in industrial applications requires careful handling and adherence to safety protocols to prevent exposure and environmental contamination.
• Chloroform is classified as a possible human carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC).
• Freon R-22 has been replaced by more environmentally friendly refrigerants such as R-410A and R-32 in many applications.