Question

Which of the following statements is true? (1) some disinfectants can be used as antiseptics in lower concentrations (2) sulphadiazine is a synthetic antibacterial (3) ampicillin is a natural antibiotic (4) aspirin is an analgesic and an antipyretic (a) 1,2 and 3 (b) 1,2 and 4 (c) 2,3 and 4 (d) 1,3 and 4

Short answer

Option (b) 1, 2, and 4 are true.

Step-by-step solution

Analyze each statement

First, we need to understand what each statement means: 1. **Some disinfectants can be used as antiseptics in lower concentrations** – This is true, as some disinfectants are used on inanimate surfaces and in lower concentrations can be safe for skin. 2. **Sulphadiazine is a synthetic antibacterial** – This statement is true because sulphadiazine, a sulfonamide, is a synthetic bacteriostatic antibiotic. 3. **Ampicillin is a natural antibiotic** – This is false since ampicillin, although derived from the natural antibiotic penicillin, is a semi-synthetic penicillin. 4. **Aspirin is an analgesic and an antipyretic** – True, as aspirin can relieve pain (analgesic) and reduce fever (antipyretic).

Identify the true statements

Based on the analysis, the true statements are: - Statement 1 is true. - Statement 2 is true. - Statement 3 is false. - Statement 4 is true.

Find the correct option

We need to choose the option that contains the true statements 1, 2, and 4. Checking the options: - Option (a) includes 1, 2, and 3 – not correct since 3 is false. - Option (b) includes 1, 2, and 4 – correct as these statements are true. - Option (c) includes 2, 3, and 4 – not correct because 3 is false. - Option (d) includes 1, 3, and 4 – not correct because 3 is false.

Key concepts

Synthetic Antibacterial

Synthetic antibacterials are medicinal compounds designed to combat bacterial infections in the human body. Unlike natural antibiotics, which are derived directly from microorganisms, synthetic antibacterials are created through chemical processes. One example of a synthetic antibacterial is sulphadiazine, which belongs to the class known as sulfonamides. These are often termed as bacteriostatic antibiotics, meaning they inhibit the growth and multiplication of bacteria, rather than killing them outright.

The development of synthetic antibacterials has been crucial for modern medicine. They have allowed for a broad spectrum of action against various bacterial infections. Sulphonamides, for example, are efficiently used to treat urinary tract infections and other bacterial infections. Their synthetic nature allows for a degree of customization in chemical structure, which can be essential to increase their potency and effectiveness against resistant strains.

Disinfectants and Antiseptics

Disinfectants and antiseptics are substances used to kill or inhibit the growth of microorganisms. The primary distinction between the two lies in their usage. Disinfectants are typically used on inanimate surfaces to eliminate germs and maintain hygiene. They are generally more concentrated and more potent, making them unsafe for application on living tissues.

Antiseptics, on the other hand, are mild enough to be used on skin and body tissues. They help prevent infections from cuts, wounds, or surgical sites. An interesting fact is that certain disinfectants can double as antiseptics when used in lower concentrations. This is due to the fact that their reduced concentration still combats germs effectively but is safe enough for topical application on the human body.

This dual functionality highlights the versatility of these chemicals, making them invaluable in both household and medical settings. Understanding the correct usage and concentration of these substances is key to ensuring their effectiveness and safety.

Analgesic and Antipyretic

Analgesics and antipyretics are common medications that play different but sometimes overlapping roles in healthcare. Analgesics are primarily used to relieve pain. They can range from over-the-counter options like aspirin and ibuprofen to stronger prescription medications. On the other hand, antipyretics are used to reduce fever.

Aspirin is a well-known drug that possesses both analgesic and antipyretic properties. It works by inhibiting the production of chemical messengers in the body, such as prostaglandins, that are involved in signaling pain and fever responses. This makes aspirin particularly versatile in dealing with conditions that involve both pain and fever, such as the flu.

The dual capability of such drugs enhances their utility in treating common ailments, providing relief and comfort to those suffering from them. It's important, however, for individuals to adhere to recommended dosages to minimize the risk of side effects.