What is the principle advantage and disadvantage of using Ammonia as a refrigerant?

Ammonia is widely used as a refrigerant largely due to its availability and effectiveness in heat transfer. The correct choice highlights that ammonia is readily available and, while effective, it is toxic. This toxicity is a key characteristic of ammonia that distinguishes it from many other refrigerants. The potential for health hazards, such as exposure to high concentrations of ammonia, makes it critical for operators to implement stringent safety measures when handling and using ammonia-based refrigeration systems.

While ammonia's effectiveness as a refrigerant is significant, the awareness of its toxic nature is crucial in ensuring safe operational practices. This means that even though it is a cost-effective and efficient option, precautions must be taken to mitigate the risks associated with its use.

The other options do not accurately describe the primary characteristics and implications of using ammonia as a refrigerant. For instance, options suggesting it is non-toxic or has issues with availability do not accurately reflect the reality of ammonia’s properties or its practical application in refrigeration systems. The focus on its readiness in the market alongside the acknowledgement of its toxicity captures the dual aspects of using ammonia effectively.