Which of the following chemicals is known for its strong oxidizing properties used in sterilization?

Chlorine dioxide is known for its strong oxidizing properties, making it an effective agent for sterilization. It acts by disrupting microbial cell membranes and oxidative damage to essential cellular components, including proteins and nucleic acids. This capability allows it to effectively kill a wide range of pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, and spores, in various environments.

In laboratory settings and other applications that require sterilization, chlorine dioxide is valued for its ability to penetrate biofilms and its effectiveness in relatively low concentrations compared to other chemical agents. Its strong oxidizing nature not only provides thorough disinfection but also makes it a versatile option for use in gaseous and liquid forms, depending on the situation.

While other options such as formaldehyde, glutaraldehyde, and ethylene oxide also have sterilizing properties, they function differently; for example, formaldehyde and glutaraldehyde are typically used in higher concentrations to achieve similar results but may come with more handling and safety concerns. Ethylene oxide is used primarily for gas sterilization and requires longer exposure times and careful controls. Each of these alternatives has its own specific applications and limitations, but in terms of strong oxidizing sterilization capability, chlorine dioxide stands out.