What are the byproducts of chlorine reacting with dissolved natural organic matter?

When chlorine reacts with dissolved natural organic matter, it undergoes a process that produces disinfection byproducts, specifically trihalomethanes (THM) and haloacetic acids (HAA). These compounds form when chlorine, during disinfection, interacts with organic materials in the water, such as humic and fulvic acids derived from decomposing plant and animal matter.

Trihalomethanes, like chloroform and bromodichloromethane, are formed through the substitution reactions with organic compounds. Haloacetic acids, which include compounds like monochloroacetic acid and dibromoacetic acid, result from chlorination processes as well. The presence of these byproducts is important to monitor because they can pose health risks when consumed over long periods. Regulatory agencies often establish limits for THMs and HAAs in drinking water due to their potential carcinogenic properties.

Other options listed do not represent the typical byproducts generated from chlorine and natural organic matter interactions in the water treatment process. For instance, nitrogen oxides and methane or ozone and bromates are not associated with this particular reaction under standard treatment protocols, and cyanides and chloramines are related to different chemical processes or uses in water treatment. Understanding the formation of TH