Volatile inorganic Cl in surface air over eastern North America was selectively measured using a tandem‐mist‐chamber technique with known collection efficiencies for HCl, HOCl, and Cl2. Mixing ratios of total alkaline‐reactive inorganic Cl (Clt) and HCl* (including HCl and possibly NOCl, ClNO2, and ClNO3) were statistically indistinguishable ranging from <39 to ≈ 2800 pptv; most were <300 pptv. Those of Cl* (including Cl2 and 56% HOCl) were <26 pptv Cl; anthropogenic influences were undetected. In addition, pre‐ and post‐sunrise concentrations of HCl* were similar suggesting insignificant Cl photochemistry at dawn. HCl appears to be the dominant form of volatile inorganic Cl over eastern North America. Atomic chlorine is probably not an important oxidant in the polluted continental boundary layer.
