Which of the following is not an antiseptic?
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 1
The correct answer is Option (1) → 1% solution of phenol
Antiseptics are applied to living tissue; disinfectants are applied to non-living objects. The same substance can act as either, depending on its concentration: 0.2% phenol is an antiseptic, while its 1% solution is a disinfectant.
Option (1) 1% solution of phenol — Not an antiseptic (a disinfectant). At 1% phenol is a disinfectant; only its 0.2% solution is an antiseptic.
Option (2) Tincture of Iodine — An antiseptic. 2–3% iodine in alcohol–water, applied to wounds.
Option (3) Dettol — An antiseptic. A mixture of chloroxylenol and terpineol.
Option (4) Iodoform — An antiseptic. Used as an antiseptic powder for wounds.
Note: This question is from the pre-rationalised NCERT book (2022-23). The topic is not there in the latest NCERT book (2026-27), and it is also out of the CUET 2026 syllabus.
NCERT (Pre-rationalised edition, 2022-23):
Antiseptics and Disinfectants – …
