Question

Are halogens disinfectants?

Answer 1

1. Yes, halogens act as disinfectants. Mostly Iodine and Chlorine compounds are used as disinfectants.
2. Halogens are strong oxidising agents. They interrupt the process of Oxidative Phosphorylation in cells of micro-organisms which is essential for their survival.
3. Halogens destroy the cell walls, nucleic acids, and proteins of micro-organisms. So lesser percentage solutions of halogens is used as disinfectants.