Fiveable
Fiveable

Sulfur hexafluoride

Definition

Sulfur hexafluoride is a potent greenhouse gas that is used in various industries, such as electrical transmission and semiconductor manufacturing. It has a high global warming potential and can stay in the atmosphere for thousands of years.

Analogy

Imagine sulfur hexafluoride as a heavyweight champion boxer who enters the ring with a long-lasting punch. Once released into the atmosphere, it stays there for an incredibly long time, contributing to climate change.

Related terms

Greenhouse gases: These are gases that trap heat in the Earth's atmosphere, leading to global warming.

Global warming potential (GWP): GWP measures how much heat a greenhouse gas traps in the atmosphere compared to carbon dioxide over a specific period.

Semiconductor manufacturing: This refers to the process of creating electronic components using materials like silicon.

"Sulfur hexafluoride" appears in:



© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.

AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.


© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.

AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.