Correct option is A
The correct answer is (a) As a disinfectant
Explanation:
Why Baking Soda Isn't Commonly Used as a Disinfectant?
- Limited Antimicrobial Properties: While baking soda has some mild cleaning properties, it does not have strong disinfectant qualities. It is more effective as a cleaning agent because it can help to neutralize odors, remove stains, and break down grease and grime.
- Mild Abrasive: It acts as a gentle abrasive, which helps scrub surfaces clean, but it doesn't kill bacteria, viruses, or fungi in the same way that chemical disinfectants or sanitizers do.
Common Uses of Baking Soda:
- Deodorizing: It can absorb odors, making it a popular choice for deodorizing refrigerators, carpets, or shoes.
- Cleaning: Baking soda is often used to clean surfaces, remove stains, or unclog drains due to its mildly abrasive nature.
- Baking: It is primarily used in cooking and baking as a leavening agent.
Effective Disinfectants:
For disinfection, substances like bleach, hydrogen peroxide, alcohol, and quaternary ammonium compounds (quats) are more commonly used because they have proven antimicrobial properties capable of killing bacteria, viruses, and fungi effectively.