What is the primary mechanism of action for chlorine-based disinfectants?
Practice Questions
Q1
What is the primary mechanism of action for chlorine-based disinfectants?
Protein denaturation
Nucleic acid synthesis inhibition
Cell wall disruption
Enzyme inhibition
Questions & Step-by-Step Solutions
What is the primary mechanism of action for chlorine-based disinfectants?
Step 1: Understand that chlorine-based disinfectants are chemicals used to kill germs and bacteria.
Step 2: Learn that these disinfectants work by interacting with the proteins in the cells of germs.
Step 3: Know that proteins are essential for the survival and function of cells.
Step 4: Realize that when chlorine-based disinfectants come into contact with these proteins, they change their structure. This process is called denaturation.
Step 5: Understand that when proteins are denatured, they can no longer perform their necessary functions, leading to the death of the germ.
