Which chemical compound is commonly used in low-level disinfection?

Sodium hypochlorite is commonly used in low-level disinfection due to its efficacy in eliminating a broad spectrum of pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi. It is a chlorine-based disinfectant that works by disrupting cellular processes and damaging the cellular structure of microorganisms, which leads to their inactivation.

This chemical is often used in healthcare settings for disinfecting surfaces and equipment that do not require high-level disinfection. It is also relatively inexpensive and widely available, making it a practical choice for low-level disinfection tasks.

In contrast, other options like hydrogen peroxide and ethyl alcohol are generally used for higher levels of disinfection, while carbolic acid, though historically significant, is less common in modern practices compared to sodium hypochlorite for low-level disinfection tasks.