Which compound formed from chlorine can be harmful to health?

• A. Chlorinated solvents
• B. Carcinogenic disinfection by-products
• C. Thiocyanates
• D. Chloramines

Answer: (B)

The focus on carcinogenic disinfection by-products as the compound formed from chlorine that can be harmful to health is well-founded. Disinfection by-products (DBPs) are formed when chlorine used in water treatment reacts with organic matter present in the water. Some of these DBPs, such as trihalomethanes (THMs) and haloacetic acids (HAAs), have been identified as potential carcinogens, raising significant health concerns due to their association with increased cancer risk over long-term exposure.

Though other compounds like chlorinated solvents, thiocyanates, and chloramines can have their own health impacts, the specific concern regarding cancer development links directly to the by-products resulting from the chlorination process. Monitoring and managing these carcinogenic DBPs is crucial in water treatment practices to ensure public health safety, making this option particularly relevant and critical in understanding the risks associated with chlorinated compounds in drinking water.