Which leak detection method is ineffective on refrigeration systems charged with zeotropic refrigerant?

The choice indicating that the halide lamp is ineffective on refrigeration systems charged with zeotropic refrigerants is correct because halide lamps are designed to detect halogenated refrigerants through the reaction of the light source with the halogen present in these refrigerants. Zeotropic refrigerants, which are mixtures with varying compositions, do not consistently contain halogens in a way that a halide lamp can effectively detect a leak. When zeotropic blends leak, not all components may be carried in equal proportions, leading to inconsistencies that the halide lamp may not recognize reliably.

In contrast, electronic leak detectors, ultrasonic leak detectors, and bubble solutions can all be effective on systems with zeotropic refrigerants. Electronic leak detectors can sense variations in pressure and composition, ultrasonic leak detectors can pick up the sound generated by escaping refrigerant, and bubble solutions can visualize leaks through the formation of bubbles, regardless of the refrigerant type. Each of these methods provides different techniques for identifying leaks in refrigeration systems, making them versatile choices for a range of refrigerants.