What is one result of overfeeding chlorine in water treatment?

Overfeeding chlorine in water treatment can lead to an increased corrosion potential in the distribution system. Chlorine is a powerful oxidizing agent, and when present in excess, it can contribute to the deterioration of pipes and other infrastructure materials. This corrosion occurs as chlorine reacts with the metals used in water distribution systems, leading to the leaching of metal ions into the water supply, which can further degrade water quality.

Additionally, excessive chlorine can create undesirable byproducts, such as trihalomethanes, through reactions with organic materials present in the water. These compounds can also be harmful and complicate water treatment processes.

The other options do not accurately reflect the consequences of overfeeding chlorine. For instance, improved taste or clearer water would not be the result of too much chlorine, as excessive levels can lead to unpleasant tastes and odors rather than improvement. While chlorine is used to disinfect water to maintain higher clarity, overapplication counteracts that benefit by introducing harmful effects. Lastly, while chlorine can affect pH, it typically does not decrease it to a significant degree; its primary role is as a disinfectant rather than a pH adjuster in the short term.