Final answer:
Trihalomethanes, Haloacetic Acids (HAA5s), Bromate, and Chlorite are known as disinfection byproducts, which are unintended chemicals formed when chlorine-based disinfectants react with organic matter in water.
Step-by-step explanation:
Trihalomethanes, Haloacetic Acids (HAA5s), Bromate, and Chlorite are referred to as disinfection byproducts. These chemicals are formed when disinfectants, typically chlorine-based compounds used to treat water, react with natural organic matter in the water. While disinfection is necessary to kill harmful pathogens, the formation of these byproducts is an unintended consequence. Disinfectants like chlorine, bromine, or iodine are used for their ability to eliminate microorganisms, but when they react with other substances in the water, it can lead to the formation of potentially harmful compounds. Disinfection byproducts can be a concern for public health, as some of them have been linked to an increased risk of cancer and other health issues when present in high concentrations in drinking water.