Final answer:
Isopropanol and ethyl alcohol are effective alternatives to 70% alcohol for disinfection purposes. These alcohols work by denaturing proteins and disrupting cell membranes, inhibiting cell metabolism and causing cell lysis.
Step-by-step explanation:
Isopropanol and ethyl alcohol are both effective alternatives to 70% alcohol for disinfection purposes. Isopropanol, also known as rubbing alcohol, kills bacteria and viruses, while ethyl alcohol, commonly found in hand sanitizers, has similar properties. These alcohols work by denaturing proteins and disrupting cell membranes, inhibiting cell metabolism and causing cell lysis. It is important to note that ethanol is volatile and flammable, so caution should be exercised when using it.