How Is the Phenol Coefficient Calculated? Why Is Phenol the Standard

question 8

Essay

How is the phenol coefficient calculated? Why is phenol the standard for testing other disinfectants?

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Definitions:

pKa

A quantitative measure of the strength of an acid in solution, defined as the negative logarithm of its acid dissociation constant.

Oxalic Acid

A dicarboxylic acid with the formula \(C_2H_2O_4\), known for its role in plant metabolism and as a cleaning agent.

Glutaric Acid

A dicarboxylic acid with the formula C5H8O4, characterized by five carbon atoms and two carboxylic acid groups, used in the manufacture of polymers and polyesters.

Benzoic Acid

A simple aromatic carboxylic acid, used in the manufacture of various cosmetics, dyes, plastics, and as a preservative.