Difference between revisions of "Antiseptic"
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==Key Stage 4== | ==Key Stage 4== | ||
===Meaning=== | ===Meaning=== | ||
| − | An [[antiseptic]] is a [[chemical]] that can kill or weaken harmful [[micro-organism]]s. These are usually used | + | An [[antiseptic]] is a [[chemical]] that can kill or weaken harmful [[micro-organism]]s. These are usually used on the body but not ingested as they can be [[toxic]] to other [[organism]]s. |
===About Antiseptics=== | ===About Antiseptics=== | ||
| − | : [[Antiseptic]]s may be | + | : [[Antiseptic]]s may be concentrated [[salt]]s or [[alcohol]]s. |
: Some common [[subtance]]s have [[antiseptic]] [[properties]] such as [[Ear Wax|ear wax]] or [[honey]]. | : Some common [[subtance]]s have [[antiseptic]] [[properties]] such as [[Ear Wax|ear wax]] or [[honey]]. | ||
: [[Antiseptic]]s may target only one type of [[micro-organism]]. [[Antibacterial]] [[chemical]]s affect [[bacteria]] but not [[fungi]]. [[Antifungal]] [[chemical]]s affect [[fungi]] but not [[bacteria]]. | : [[Antiseptic]]s may target only one type of [[micro-organism]]. [[Antibacterial]] [[chemical]]s affect [[bacteria]] but not [[fungi]]. [[Antifungal]] [[chemical]]s affect [[fungi]] but not [[bacteria]]. | ||
Revision as of 13:08, 11 November 2018
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 subtances 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.