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What is the main environmental concern associated with chlorine and bromine radicals?

1. Water pollution

2. Ozone depletion

3. Air quality deterioration

4. Climate change

The correct answer is: Ozone depletion

The primary environmental concern linked to chlorine and bromine radicals is ozone depletion. These radicals play a significant role in the destruction of ozone in the stratosphere, which is crucial for protecting the Earth from harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Chlorine and bromine atoms can break down ozone molecules in a chain reaction, leading to a significant increase in the rate of ozone loss. The depletion of the ozone layer results in increased UV radiation reaching the Earth's surface, which can lead to higher incidents of skin cancer, cataracts, and adverse effects on ecosystems. In contrast, while water pollution, air quality deterioration, and climate change are significant environmental issues, they are not primarily attributed to chlorine and bromine radicals. Water pollution typically involves contaminants entering water systems, air quality deterioration relates to pollutants affecting the atmosphere and human health, and climate change mainly concerns greenhouse gases and their impact on global temperatures. Therefore, the focus on ozone depletion aligns directly with the known impacts of chlorine and bromine radicals.