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What can be a consequence if contact time for disinfection is insufficient?
Water may taste better
Pathogens may survive
Filtration will be more effective
Temperature will decrease
The correct answer is: Pathogens may survive
When disinfection is carried out in water treatment, sufficient contact time is crucial for the disinfectant to effectively kill or inactivate pathogens, such as bacteria, viruses, and protozoa. If the contact time is insufficient, the disinfectant does not have enough time to react with and eliminate these harmful organisms, which can lead to their survival. This can pose significant health risks to consumers, as untreated or inadequately treated water can lead to the spread of waterborne diseases. Therefore, maintaining proper contact time is essential in ensuring that the water is safe for consumption and meets regulatory standards. The other options presented do not accurately reflect the implications of insufficient contact time. Improved taste or filtration effectiveness and temperature change are not directly related to the effectiveness of disinfection and the survival of pathogens.