Which of the following is a characteristic of tuberculation?

Tuberculation refers to the formation of tubercles, which are small, often irregularly shaped deposits or growths that can develop on the inside surfaces of water pipes, particularly cast iron pipes. One of the key characteristics of tuberculation is its tendency to reduce flow capacity within these pipes. As tubercles build up, they obstruct the flow of water, which can result in decreased water velocity and an overall reduction in the effective cross-sectional area through which water can travel. This ultimately leads to lower flow rates and may necessitate increased pumping efforts or may even require the replacement of the affected piping to restore normal water supply levels.

The other options do not accurately represent the nature of tuberculation. For instance, it does not increase water pressure, as increased pressure is typically associated with unobstructed flow in pipes. Tuberculation does not prevent corrosion; instead, it often indicates corrosion-related issues. Additionally, tuberculation does not enhance water taste; in fact, the deposits can adversely affect water quality and taste due to potential contaminants. Thus, the correct understanding of tuberculation centers around its impact on flow capacity within water distribution systems.