General Microbiology & Sterilisation · NEET PG Preparation Microbiology
What is the primary mechanism of action of alcohol (such as 70 percent isopropyl alcohol) as an antiseptic and disinfectant?
Practice question from General Microbiology & Sterilisation (NEET PG Preparation Microbiology), with the correct answer and a step-by-step solution.
medium · MCQ · Q-81BCE1
What is the primary mechanism of action of alcohol (such as 70 percent isopropyl alcohol) as an antiseptic and disinfectant?
- A.Alkylation of nucleic acids
- B.Denaturation of proteins and disruption of cell membranesCorrect answer
- C.Inhibition of cell wall synthesis by binding to transpeptidases
- D.Oxidation of essential sulfhydryl groups
Solution
Alcohols act primarily by denaturing proteins and dissolving lipids, leading to cell membrane disruption. They require water to be effective, which is why 70% alcohol is more effective than absolute (100%) alcohol.
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