Tea can become cloudy when certain compounds in the tea leaves dissolve in water and form a suspension, creating a cloudy appearance. There are several factors that can affect the cloudiness of tea, including:

1. Type of tea: Different types of tea, such as black tea and green tea, can have different levels of cloudiness due to the presence of different compounds. For example, black tea, which is fully fermented, can be cloudier than green tea, which is unfermented.
2. Water quality: The minerals and impurities present in water can affect the cloudiness of tea. Hard water, which has a high mineral content, can cause tea to become cloudier than soft water, which has a low mineral content.
3. Steeping time: The longer tea is steeped, the cloudier it may become. This is because the longer the tea leaves are in contact with water, the more compounds will dissolve and create a cloudy appearance.
4. Temperature: The temperature of the water can also affect the cloudiness of tea. For example, black tea is typically brewed at a higher temperature than green tea, which can result in a cloudier appearance.
5. Agitation: Agitating the tea, such as stirring or shaking it, can cause the suspended compounds to become more dispersed, resulting in a cloudier appearance.

Cloudiness in tea is generally not a cause for concern and does not affect the taste or safety of the tea. However, if the tea has an off taste or smell, it may be a sign of contamination and should be discarded.

In conclusion, tea can become cloudy when certain compounds in the tea leaves dissolve in water and form a suspension. The type of tea, water quality, steeping time, temperature, and agitation can all affect the cloudiness of tea. Cloudiness in tea is generally not a cause for concern and does not affect the taste or safety of the tea.