Question

The oxidant which is used as an antiseptic is.
A. $KMn{O_4}$
B. $KBr{O_3}$
C. $Cr{O_3}$
D. $KN{O_3}$

Answer 1

To answer this question we must know the exact meaning of an antiseptic. Antiseptics can be defined as an antimicrobial agent which can be applied on the body of living organisms to inhibit the action of the microbes. Like antibiotics they are not injected into the body, rather they are applied on the surface of the skin to heal the wounds and cuts in living organisms.

Complete step-by-step answer: Potassium permanganate, $KMn{O_4}$ is a powerful oxidising agent in all mediums and it is used as an antiseptic. It is a mild antiseptic with astringent properties. Potassium permanganate tablets are widely used in clinical practice.
Potassium bromate, $KBr{O_3}$ is used as a flour improver. It acts to strengthen the dough and to allow higher rising. It acts as an oxidizing agent under the right conditions and will be completely reacted to a form with a lower oxidation state in baking the bread
Chromium trioxide, $Cr{O_3}$ is a powerful oxidiser and also a carcinogen. Chromium trioxide is mainly used in chrome plating.
Potassium nitrate, $KN{O_3}$ are used in fertilizers, rocket propellants and fireworks. It is one of the major constituents of gunpowder. In processed meats, potassium nitrate reacts with hemoglobin and also myoglobin to generate a pink color.

Hence correct answer is option A, potassium permanganate, $KMn{O_4}$ .

Note: The difference between disinfectants and antiseptics are listed below even though both are used for killing the microbes.
An antiseptic is used for killing the microbes on the living tissues while a disinfectant is applied on a non-living object.
We can say that the cleaning products contain disinfectants and the healing products contain antiseptics.
Both are similar in nature but vary in their concentration. For example lysol is a disinfectant whereas dettol is an antiseptic.