Question

Cationic detergents typically work by ______.

a. inhibiting RNA synthesis
b. disrupting the cell membrane
c. inhibiting protein synthesis
d. disrupting the cell wall
e. producing toxic radicals
f. causing mutations in DNA

Answer 1

Cationic detergents, like quaternary ammonium salts, disrupt the cell membrane of bacteria, effectively killing them. option b.

Step-by-step explanation:

Cationic detergents typically work by disrupting the cell membrane. These detergents, such as the quaternary ammonium salts (quats), have both hydrophilic and hydrophobic properties allowing them to interact with the phospholipid bilayer of bacteria, leading to cellular disruption and death. Quats, like benzalkonium chloride and cetylpyrimidine chloride, are frequently used as disinfectants due to their membrane-disruptive abilities. Cationic detergents, such as quaternary ammonium salts (quats), have a positively charged component that allows them to insert into the bacterial phospholipid bilayer and disrupt membrane integrity. This disruption leads to the death of the cell.