Antiseptic
Contents
Key Stage 4
Meaning
An antiseptic is a chemical that can kill or weaken harmful micro-organisms. These are usually used on the body but not ingested as they can be toxic to other organisms.
About Antiseptics
- Antiseptics may be concentrated salts or alcohols.
- Some common substances have antiseptic properties such as ear wax or honey.
- Antiseptics may target only one type of micro-organism. Antibacterial chemicals affect bacteria but not fungi. Antifungal chemicals affect fungi but not bacteria.
References
AQA
Edexcel
- Antiseptic, page 160, GCSE Biology, CGP, Edexcel
- Antiseptic; investigating, pages 179-181, GCSE Biology, CGP, Edexcel
- Antiseptics, page 57, GCSE Biology; The Revision Guide, CGP, Edexcel
- Antiseptics; investigating, pages 63, 64, GCSE Biology; The Revision Guide, CGP, Edexcel