What is a characteristic feature of F-gases?

F-gases, or fluorinated gases, are known for their significant contribution to the greenhouse effect, which is why the correct answer highlights this characteristic feature. These gases, including hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), perfluorocarbons (PFCs), and sulfur hexafluoride (SF6), are potent greenhouse gases that can trap heat in the atmosphere much more effectively than carbon dioxide, despite often being present in smaller quantities.

Their long atmospheric lifetimes mean they can remain in the atmosphere for many years, contributing to global warming and climate change. This property has made them the focus of international efforts to reduce emissions, such as the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately describe F-gases. While some fluorinated gases may be less toxic than others, classifying all F-gases as completely non-toxic is misleading. Most F-gases are neither biodegradable nor environmentally benign, and they are indeed widely used in various industrial applications such as refrigeration, air conditioning, and insulating materials, which contrasts with the idea of them having no industrial applications.