(a) Differentiate between a disinfectant and an antiseptic. Give one example of each.
(b) What is tincture of iodine and what is it used for?

(a)

Disinfectants are antimicrobial agents applied to non-living or inanimate objects so as to destroy the microorganisms living on that object. But they are harmful if they are applied on human tissue or skin as our skin is very sensitive and disinfectants would cause some ill effects on our skin.

E.g. 0.1% solution of phenol.

Antisepticsare used on living tissues to kill or prevent the growth of microorganisms. It does not cause any harm to the living tissues.

E.g. 0.2% solution of phenol.

(b) Tincture of iodine is nothing but 2-3% solution of iodine in alcohol and water. It is widely used as an antiseptic in our daily lives.