What type of solution is preferred for effective disinfection?

The preferred solution for effective disinfection is a 70% ethyl alcohol concentration. This concentration is optimal because it strikes a balance between water and alcohol, enhancing the solution's effectiveness as a disinfectant. The presence of water is crucial as it slows down the evaporation rate of the alcohol, allowing more time for the alcohol to penetrate and disrupt the cell membranes of pathogens, leading to effective microbial inactivation.

At higher concentrations, such as 100% ethyl alcohol, the rapid evaporation can limit its contact time with pathogens, reducing its efficacy as a disinfectant. Similarly, concentrations lower than 70% may not provide sufficient alcohol content to effectively kill microbes. Therefore, 70% ethyl alcohol is widely accepted in various settings for disinfection purposes due to its proven effectiveness.