Which of the following is a negative effect of corrosion?

Corrosion can significantly impact the water distribution system, leading to issues that affect both the aesthetic and functional aspects of drinking water. When pipes corrode, they can release metal particles and other compounds into the water, resulting in discoloration and an unpleasant taste. This degradation of water quality is often a source of complaints from consumers, as they may notice changes in how the water looks and tastes, which can deter them from using tap water altogether.

Furthermore, while options such as improved water taste or increased pipe strength might suggest a positive outcome, these are typically not associated with corrosion. Instead, the negative effects are more apparent in scenarios where compromised pipe integrity leads to a range of complications for water supply and quality, manifesting in problems such as the ones indicated in the chosen answer.

In relation to decreased water flow, corrosion can indeed lead to reduced flow rates by narrowing the interior of pipes over time; however, this is a physical consequence of corrosion rather than a direct customer complaint about water quality, making complaints about color and taste a more relevant negative effect associated specifically with corrosion.