One limitation of chlorination as a water treatment method is:

Chlorination is a commonly used method for disinfecting water, particularly in municipal water treatment facilities. One notable limitation of this method is that it can lead to the formation of undesirable chemical by-products, such as trihalomethanes (THMs) and haloacetic acids (HAAs). These by-products are the result of chlorination reacting with organic matter present in the water.

The formation of these by-products is concerning because they can pose health risks to consumers. Long-term exposure to some of these compounds has been linked to an increased risk of certain cancers and other health issues. This is why water treatment facilities must monitor and manage the levels of these by-products in treated water to ensure compliance with health standards and regulations.

The other options do not accurately reflect the limitations of chlorination. It is effective against many bacteria, does require maintenance to monitor chlorine levels and ensure appropriate dosing, and is not limited to only large water bodies. Understanding this aspect of chlorination is crucial for water safety and the management of public health standards.