Differentiate between disinfectants and antiseptics. Give one example of each group.

Explanation

(i) Antiseptic : These are the chemicals which prevent the growth of micro-organisms or kill them but are not harmful to human beings. These are applied externally to the living tissues such as wounds, cuts and diseased skin surfaces. Dettol (chloroxylenol + `alpha`-terpineol), bithional, furacin, dilute solution of boric acid are common example of antiseptics.
(ii) Disinfectant : These are chemicals which kill micro-organisms or prevent their growth but are not safe for human beings. These are applied to inanimate objects such as floors, drainage systems. Some substances can act as an antiseptic as well as disinfectant by varying the concentration. For example, 0.2% solution of phenol is an antiseptic while its one percent solution is disinfectant.