field of study Analytical Chemistry Environmental Chemistry area of interest Understanding the mechanisms and pathways that determine the environmental fate, disposal, and persistence of chemical pollutants is critical for developing solutions to current and future environmental problems. We are currently investigating the role of sunlight in the "natural cleaning" of rivers, lakes and oceans by generating reactive oxidants such as hydroxyl and carbonate radicals. Furthermore, we are interested in the increased use of fluorine as a structural component in industrial and agrochemicals. Little is known about the effects of fluorine on the environmental persistence of these potential pollutants, or more specifically, the fate of fluorine itself.