Which of the following will act as antiseptic as well as disinfectant?

Phenol

The correct answer is option 4. Phenol.

Antiseptics and disinfectants are both crucial for controlling the spread of germs, but they have a key difference in their target application. Let us find out why option 4, Phenol, is the answer:

Antiseptics: These are used on living tissues like skin or mucous membranes. Their purpose is to reduce or eliminate microorganisms that can cause infection. Antiseptics are typically milder formulations to avoid harming the living tissue.

Disinfectants: These are used on inanimate objects like countertops, floors, or medical instruments. Their primary goal is to kill a broad spectrum of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Disinfectants are often harsher chemicals compared to antiseptics.

Now, let us look at each option:

Boric Acid: While boric acid has some mild antiseptic properties, it's not generally considered a disinfectant because it's not strong enough to eliminate a wide range of microorganisms effectively.

Iodoform: This acts as an antiseptic but has limitations. It can be effective on wounds, but due to potential toxicity, it's not recommended for use on large areas of skin.

Sulphur Dioxide: This is primarily used as a fumigant disinfectant. It's not suitable for applying directly to skin due to its harsh nature.

Phenol: Phenol exhibits properties of both antiseptic and disinfectant. At lower concentrations, it can be diluted for safe use as an antiseptic on the skin to reduce germs. In higher concentrations, it becomes a powerful disinfectant for surfaces. However, it's important to note that phenol can be irritating and requires proper handling due to its toxicity.

In essence, Phenol's versatility allows it to function as both an antiseptic (at lower concentration) and a disinfectant (at higher concentration) depending on its dilution.