Question

Out of the following, which class does Chloroxylenol belong to?
A. Antiseptic
B. Antipyretic
C. Analgesic
D. Tranquilliser

Answer 1

Hint: Chloroxylenol is used as a sanitising agent for skin and surgical instruments.
Chloroxylenol, also known as para chloro meta xylenol or 4-Chloro 3, 5 - Xylenol ( PCMX ) and has the chemical formula \[{C_8}{H_9}ClO\].

Complete Step by Step Answer:
Let us discuss the function of each of the following options one by one:
• Antiseptics are used to inhibit the growth of harmful microorganisms.
• Antipyretics are fever-reducing agents.
• Analgesics are pain relievers.
• Tranquillisers are drugs used in the treatment of neurological disorders.
The function of Chloroxylenol matches with that of an antiseptic i.e., to kill or reduce the growth of disease-causing microorganisms.

The suffix “ enol ” indicates that the compound consists of a hydroxyl group, which means it is an alcohol or phenol derivative, and the prefix “ chloro “ indicates the presence of a chlorine atom, both of which are used as antiseptic agents.
So , option A is correct.

Additional Information: Chloroxylenol is a chemical constituent of Dettol. Excessive dose of Chloroxylenol leads to death. Chloroxylenol is also known as para-chloro-meta -xylenol.

Note: Chlorine and other halogens are also used along with phenol as antiseptic and disinfecting agents and their presence in other compounds enhances their antiseptic activity. Chloroxylenol is a synthetic halogen-substituted phenol derivatives used as an antiseptic and disinfectant at varying concentrations and found in various soaps and other household antiseptics.