Trihalomethane
Group of chemical compounds
Trihalomethanes[edit | edit source]
Trihalomethanes (THMs) are chemical compounds in which three of the four hydrogen atoms of methane (CH_) are replaced by halogen atoms. The general formula for trihalomethanes is CHX_, where X represents a halogen atom, such as fluorine, chlorine, bromine, or iodine.
Formation[edit | edit source]
Trihalomethanes are often formed as a byproduct of water chlorination, a process used to disinfect drinking water. When chlorine or other disinfectants react with natural organic matter in water, trihalomethanes can be produced. The presence of THMs in drinking water is a concern due to their potential health effects.
Health effects[edit | edit source]
Exposure to trihalomethanes has been associated with various health risks. Some studies suggest a link between long-term exposure to THMs and an increased risk of cancer, particularly bladder cancer. Additionally, there may be reproductive and developmental effects associated with THM exposure.
Regulation[edit | edit source]
Due to their potential health risks, the concentration of trihalomethanes in drinking water is regulated in many countries. For example, the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has set a maximum contaminant level for total trihalomethanes (TTHMs) in drinking water at 80 parts per billion (ppb).
Types of trihalomethanes[edit | edit source]
There are several common types of trihalomethanes, each with different halogen atoms:
- Fluoroform (CHF_)
- Chlorodifluoromethane (CHClF_)
- Chloroform (CHCl_)
- Bromodichloromethane (CHBrCl_)
- Dibromochloromethane (CHBr_Cl)
- Bromoform (CHBr_)
- Iodoform (CHI_)
Related pages[edit | edit source]
References[edit | edit source]
Fluoroform
Chlorodifluoromethane
Chloroform
Bromodichloromethane
Dibromochloromethane
Bromoform
Iodoform
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