Which of the following is commonly used to prevent infection on living tissue?

The correct answer is antiseptic, as it specifically refers to substances that inhibit the growth of microorganisms on living tissues. Antiseptics are commonly used in medical settings to disinfect skin before surgical procedures or injections, helping to reduce the risk of infection by preventing the proliferation of pathogens.

In contrast, antibiotics are typically used to treat infections caused by bacteria but are not directly applied to living tissue for preoperative cleansing. Disinfectants, while effective at destroying bacteria and viruses, are intended for use on non-living surfaces and can be too harsh for living tissues, potentially causing irritation or damage. Fungicides are targeted treatments for fungal infections and do not broadly prevent infection by a variety of pathogens. Each of these alternatives serves a different purpose, reinforcing why antiseptic is the most appropriate choice for preventing infection on living tissue.