Which of the following alcohols is often used as an industrial solvent and antiseptic?

Isopropyl alcohol is commonly used as an industrial solvent and antiseptic due to its effective antimicrobial properties and relatively low toxicity compared to other alcohols. It is a clear, colorless liquid that evaporates quickly, making it ideal for cleaning surfaces and disinfecting skin. Its ability to dissolve a wide range of non-polar compounds further enhances its utility in various industrial applications.

While ethyl alcohol is also known for its antiseptic properties and is frequently used in hand sanitizers and medical applications, isopropyl alcohol is preferred in many industrial settings for cleaning and degreasing because of its higher effectiveness against a broader array of pathogens. Propyl alcohol and butanol are less commonly used in these roles. Thus, isopropyl alcohol stands out as a key alcohol used extensively in both the industrial and medical fields for its versatility and efficiency.