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aclark609
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I understand that bleach is NaClO. I also understand that Cl and O are very reactive, but how does any of this play into bleach being a good decontaminant?
aclark609 said:what makes bleach better or worse even than any other good oxidizing agent?
Bleach works as a decontaminant by breaking down the cell walls of bacteria, which causes them to die. The active ingredient in bleach, sodium hypochlorite, reacts with the proteins and enzymes in bacteria to disrupt their cellular processes and ultimately kill them.
While bleach is effective against many types of bacteria, it may not be effective against all strains. Some bacteria have developed resistance to bleach, so it is important to use it in conjunction with other cleaning methods to ensure complete decontamination.
Bleach works as a disinfectant by oxidizing and destroying the molecules that make up bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens. This process effectively eliminates harmful microorganisms and prevents them from spreading and causing illness.
While bleach can be a powerful decontaminant, it is important to use it properly and with caution. Bleach is a corrosive substance and can cause skin and eye irritation, so it is important to wear protective gear and properly dilute it before use.
The time it takes for bleach to decontaminate a surface depends on several factors, such as the concentration of bleach, the type and amount of bacteria present, and the surface material. In general, it is recommended to leave bleach on a surface for at least 5-10 minutes before wiping it off to ensure effective decontamination.