What is the global warming potential of Sulfur Hexafluoride (SF6) over a 100 year time horizon?

The global warming potential (GWP) of a substance is a measure of how much energy the emissions of that substance will absorb over a specified period, relative to carbon dioxide (CO2). For sulfur hexafluoride (SF6), the GWP is recognized to be exceptionally high due to its significant ability to trap heat in the atmosphere.

The correct answer indicates that the global warming potential of SF6 over a 100-year time horizon is 23,500 times that of CO2. This extraordinarily high figure reflects sulfur hexafluoride's strong greenhouse gas characteristics; it is not only long-lived in the atmosphere but also extremely effective at absorbing infrared radiation, contributing to the greenhouse effect more than nearly any other gas.

When assessing the impact of various greenhouse gases, SF6 is often highlighted because it is used in various applications, primarily in the electrical industry, as an insulator and arc-extinguisher in circuit breakers and switchgear. Understanding its GWP is crucial for regulatory purposes and for industries looking to minimize their greenhouse gas emissions.

The other options reflect potential misunderstandings of the GWP of SF6, as they suggest much lower values than the scientifically established measurement. Recognizing the correct GWP helps in global climate change