When chlorine reacts with organic compounds, which two groups of compounds are produced?

Prepare for the Georgia Drinking Water Laboratory Analyst Test with comprehensive study material. Utilize flashcards and multiple-choice questions with detailed hints and explanations to ace your exam!

When chlorine reacts with organic compounds during water treatment, it can lead to the formation of disinfection byproducts that are of significant concern regarding water quality. Among these byproducts, trihalomethanes (THMs) and haloacetic acids (HAAs) are two major groups that are commonly formed.

Trihalomethanes are a class of compounds that contain three halogen atoms from chlorine or bromine attached to a methane molecule. These compounds are known to be potential carcinogens and their presence in drinking water is regulated due to health risks.

Haloacetic acids, on the other hand, are organic compounds that contain at least one halogen atom (such as chlorine) and an acetic acid structure. Similar to trihalomethanes, haloacetic acids are also considered harmful, and their levels are monitored in drinking water to ensure safety for public health.

The formation of these compounds is a direct consequence of the chlorine disinfection process, particularly when chlorine interacts with naturally occurring organic matter in the water source. Monitoring the levels of both trihalomethanes and haloacetic acids is an essential part of ensuring safe drinking water, as they can pose health risks if present above certain thresholds.

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