Question

which of the following agents would be least effective for disinfecting? a 10% sodium hypochlorite solution (bleach) b alcohol (e.g., 70% ethanol or isopropanol) c water

Explanation:

To determine the least effective disinfecting agent, we analyze each option:

• Option A: 10% sodium hypochlorite (bleach) is a strong disinfectant, effective against many pathogens.
• Option B: 70% alcohol (ethanol/isopropanol) is a well - known disinfectant, effective at killing microbes by denaturing proteins.
• Option C: Water is mainly a solvent and does not have inherent disinfecting properties. It can wash away some microbes but doesn't kill them like the other two agents.

Answer:

C. water