Which of these is a negative effect of chloramines in water systems?

The presence of chloramines in water systems can lead to several issues, one of which is the formation of harmful disinfection byproducts (DBPs). When chloramines react with organic matter present in the water, they can create byproducts such as monochloramine and other potentially hazardous compounds. These DBPs are a significant public health concern because they can pose various health risks if consumed over time. Therefore, the ability of chloramines to form harmful disinfection byproducts is a critical negative effect that needs to be managed in water treatment practices to ensure the safety and quality of drinking water.

The other options present positive aspects or benefits of chloramines rather than negative effects. Enhancing water flavor, providing long-lasting disinfection, and reducing bacterial growth are all advantages that can result from the careful use of chloramines in water treatment. These benefits highlight the importance of balance in water treatment practices, as while chloramines can be effective for disinfection, their potential to create harmful byproducts also necessitates careful monitoring and management.