Question

Dettol consist of:
A. Xylenol + terpineol
B. Chloroxylenol + terpineol
C. Cresol + ethanol
D. None of the above

Answer 1

Hint: We have to remember that the Dettol is sorted from an antiseptic liquid and helps to guard humans against infection from minor skin cuts, scratches and bug bites. Antiseptic means it will reduce or prevent the infections very efficiently.

Complete step by step answer:
Dettol is going to act as antiseptic meaning it should have some chemicals that should kill the bacteria.
We have to remember that the Dettol contains Chloroxylenol (comprises 4.8% of Dettol’s total admixture), terpineol and isopropanol. Chloroxylenol acts as an antiseptic and disinfectant used for skin disinfection and cleaning surgical instruments. Terpineol which may be a monoterpene alcohol has been isolated from a spread of sources like oil. Dettol contains compounds like Chloroxylenol and terpineol.
Therefore, the solution to this present question is option B that is Chloroxylenol and terpineol.
We have to remember that the Chloroxylenol is also known as para-chloro-meta-xylenol. It is used for skin infection and cleaning surgical instruments. It is available as liquid. It is less effective than some available agents. Side effects are generally few but can cause skin irritation.
It is most effective against gram positive bacteria. It works by disrupting the cell membrane and stopping the functioning of enzymes. It is highly toxic to fish, cats and amphibians.

So, the correct answer is Option B.

Note: We must remember that the terpineol is actually a mixture of the isomers with alpha-terpineol as the major constituent. It has a pleasing odor similar to lilac and is a common ingredient in perfumes, cosmetics and flavours.
Chloroxylenol is the active ingredient in Dettol. It comprises 4.8% of dettol’s total admixture, and therefore the rest is formed from pine oil, isopropanol, castor oil, soap and water. Dettol’s antiseptic property comes from Chloroxylenol.