Benzalkonium chloride is a .

Options

A. cationic surfactant and antiseptic
B. anionic surfactant and soluble in most of the organic solvents
C. cationic surfactant and insoluble is most of the organic solvents
D. cationic surfactant and antimalarial

Answer

To determine what Benzalkonium chloride is, we can break down the information step by step:

### Step 1: Identify the Chemical Name
Benzalkonium chloride is also known as alkyl dimethyl benzyl ammonium chloride. This indicates that it is a quaternary ammonium compound.

**Hint:** Look for alternative names or common names for chemical compounds to understand their structure and classification.

### Step 2: Classify the Compound
Benzalkonium chloride belongs to the category of surfactants. Surfactants are compounds that lower the surface tension between two substances, such as liquids and solids.

**Hint:** Remember that surfactants can be classified into different categories based on their charge (anionic, cationic, nonionic, and amphoteric).

### Step 3: Identify its Function
Benzalkonium chloride is used as an antiseptic. Antiseptics are substances that prevent the growth of disease-causing microorganisms.

**Hint:** Think about the applications of chemical compounds in medicine and hygiene, as this can help you understand their importance.

### Step 4: Determine its Chemical Nature
Benzalkonium chloride is a nitrogenous compound, meaning it contains nitrogen in its structure. It is also a cationic surfactant, which means it carries a positive charge.

**Hint:** When studying compounds, pay attention to their elemental composition and the implications of their charge.

### Conclusion
Based on the information gathered, Benzalkonium chloride is classified as a cationic surfactant and an antiseptic agent.

**Final Answer:** Benzalkonium chloride is a cationic surfactant and antiseptic.