What is a result of ineffective disinfection processes in water treatment?

Ineffective disinfection processes in water treatment can lead to the presence of pathogens, which are harmful microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, and protozoa found in water. Disinfection is a critical step in ensuring that water is safe for consumption by eliminating or inactivating these pathogens that can cause waterborne diseases. If the disinfection process fails or is inadequate, it allows these disease-causing organisms to survive in the water supply, posing significant health risks to those who consume the contaminated water.

In contrast, the other options reflect outcomes that do not correlate with poor disinfection. Decreased taste quality may be influenced by factors like water chemistry or the presence of certain minerals and not directly tied to the efficacy of disinfection. An increase in potable water would not occur due to ineffective disinfection; in fact, it could lead to a decrease in the overall safety and suitability of water for consumption. Enhanced clarity is often associated with effective treatment processes that remove suspended solids but does not guarantee the absence of pathogens if disinfection is inadequate. Therefore, the core issue resulting from ineffective disinfection is indeed the survival of pathogenic organisms in the water.