Antiseptics and disinfectants wither kill or prevent growth of microorganisms. Identify which of the following statement/s is not true.

(A) Disinfectants are applied to living tissues.

(B) Dilute solution of boric acid and hydrogen peroxide are string antiseptics

(C) A \(0.2\%\) solution of phenol is an antiseptic while \(1\%\) solution acts as disinfectants.

(D) Chlorine and sulphur dioxide in very low concentrations  are disinfectants.

Choose the correct answers from the options given below:

A and B only

The correct answer is option 1. A and B only.

Let us delve into each statement to clarify which ones are not true regarding antiseptics and disinfectants:

(A) Disinfectants are applied to living tissues.

Disinfectants are substances used to kill or inhibit the growth of microorganisms on inanimate surfaces, such as floors, countertops, and medical instruments. They are not intended for use on living tissues because they can be too harsh and potentially harmful. In contrast, antiseptics are designed specifically for application on living tissues. They are milder and safe for use on skin and mucous membranes. Therefore, this statement is incorrect.

(B) Dilute solution of boric acid and hydrogen peroxide are strong antiseptics.

Boric Acid: Boric acid is used as a mild antiseptic, especially in ocular applications or for treating minor cuts and burns. It is not generally considered a "strong" antiseptic but is effective in certain applications.

Hydrogen Peroxide: Hydrogen peroxide is used as a disinfectant and antiseptic, particularly in wound cleaning. In dilute solutions, it is effective at killing bacteria and is used to clean wounds. However, its antiseptic properties might not be considered as strong compared to other antiseptics like iodine-based solutions.

Labeling them as "strong" may be misleading because their antiseptic strength can be considered mild compared to more potent antiseptics. Thus, this statement might be partially misleading or not entirely accurate.

(C) A \(0.2\%\) solution of phenol is an antiseptic while \(1\%\) solution acts as disinfectant.

Phenol is a well-known antiseptic and disinfectant. Its effectiveness depends on the concentration:

\(0.2\%\) Phenol: At this concentration, phenol is used as an antiseptic. It is effective in inhibiting the growth of microorganisms on living tissues.

\(1\%\) Phenol: At this higher concentration, phenol acts as a disinfectant. It is used to kill microorganisms on surfaces and inanimate objects.

This statement is accurate and reflects the different uses of phenol at varying concentrations.

(D) Chlorine and sulphur dioxide in very low concentrations are disinfectants.

Chlorine: Chlorine, even in very low concentrations, is used as a disinfectant, especially in water treatment to kill bacteria and viruses. It is highly effective at sanitizing water and surfaces.

Sulfur Dioxide: Sulfur dioxide is also used as a disinfectant and preservative, particularly in the food industry. It helps prevent microbial growth and spoilage.

Both chlorine and sulfur dioxide can act as disinfectants even at low concentrations, making this statement true.

Based on the above explanations:

Statement A is not true because disinfectants are not used on living tissues; antiseptics are used for that purpose.

Statement B might be misleading in calling boric acid and hydrogen peroxide "strong" antiseptics, as they are generally considered mild compared to other antiseptics.

Statement C is accurate regarding the use of phenol at different concentrations.

Statement D is correct regarding the use of chlorine and sulfur dioxide as disinfectants.

Thus, the statements that are not true are: 1. A and B only