How do disinfectants and antiseptics differ from antibiotics?

• A. Antiseptics and disinfectants kill or reduce pathogens on surfaces or living tissue; antibiotics work inside the body to kill or inhibit bacteria.
• B. Antiseptics kill viruses; disinfectants kill bacteria.
• C. Antibiotics disinfect surfaces.
• D. Antiseptics work inside the body; disinfectants work on surfaces.

Answer: (A)

The main idea is where and how these antimicrobial agents work. Antiseptics and disinfectants are used externally to kill or reduce pathogens: antiseptics on living tissue such as skin or mucous membranes, and disinfectants on inanimate surfaces like countertops or medical equipment. Antibiotics, on the other hand, are medicines taken inside the body to kill or inhibit bacteria within tissues and the bloodstream. They are not used to disinfect surfaces, and they mostly target bacteria (though not viruses). This distinction explains why the statement that describes external use on surfaces or living tissue versus internal action against bacteria is the best answer.