Chemistry
The Role of Hydroxyl Radicals in Tropospheric Ozone Formation
Quick fact
Although hydroxyl radicals exist for only about a second, they are the primary atmospheric detergent that controls the lifetime of most trace gases, including methane and VOCs, directly influencing ground-level ozone and air quality.
Why this is interesting
You know the ozone layer protects us from the sun, but did you know there's a kind of ozone down here that can harm your lungs? And it's all sparked by a tiny, short-lived molecule called the hydroxyl radical.