Lead pipes are not suitable for drinking water because

Options

A. a layer of lead dioxide is deposited over pipes.
B. lead reacts with air to form litharge.
C. lead reacts with water containing air to form `Pb(OH)_(2)`.
D. lead forms basic lead carbonate.

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Introduction to Lead Pipes:**
Lead pipes were historically used for plumbing, but their use has raised health concerns, particularly regarding drinking water.

2. **Corrosion of Lead:**
Lead is susceptible to corrosion when it comes into contact with water and air. This corrosion leads to the formation of various lead compounds.

3. **Formation of Lead Compounds:**
- When lead pipes are exposed to air and water, lead reacts with oxygen to form lead oxide (litharge).
- In the presence of water, lead can react to form lead hydroxide (Pb(OH)₂).
- Lead can also form basic lead carbonate, which is another compound that can leach into water.

4. **Plumbosolvency:**
The term "plumbosolvency" refers to the tendency of lead to dissolve in water, especially when the water is acidic or contains certain levels of oxygen. This process can lead to the contamination of drinking water with lead compounds.

5. **Toxicity of Lead:**
Lead and its compounds, such as lead hydroxide, are highly toxic. Consumption of lead can lead to serious health issues, including neurological damage, especially in children.

6. **Historical Context:**
Lead was commonly used in plumbing until the mid-20th century. However, as awareness of its toxicity grew, regulations were put in place to limit its use in drinking water systems.

7. **Conclusion:**
Due to the corrosion of lead pipes and the subsequent leaching of toxic lead compounds into drinking water, lead pipes are considered unsuitable for carrying drinking water.

**Final Answer:**
Lead pipes are not suitable for drinking water because they can corrode and leach toxic lead compounds, such as lead hydroxide, into the water.

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