The immediate concern of chlorine exposure is the effects on the ____?

The immediate concern of chlorine exposure primarily relates to the airway and lungs due to the irritant nature of chlorine gas. When inhaled, chlorine can cause respiratory distress, leading to symptoms such as coughing, difficulty breathing, and chest tightness. This is particularly significant because chlorine is a potent pulmonary irritant; high concentrations can lead to serious damage to the respiratory tract, including the potential for pulmonary edema and long-term respiratory issues.

While exposure to chlorine can also affect the skin and eyes, these effects are typically not as immediate or severe as those on the airway and lungs. The digestive system and nervous system can experience effects from chlorine exposure, but these tend to be secondary concerns compared to the acute respiratory issues that arise from inhalation of chlorine gas. Thus, the airway and lungs are the primary focus in scenarios of chlorine exposure, making this option the most relevant in understanding the immediate health risks associated with such exposure.