Iodine is widely used as a disinfectant and antiseptic in medical settings, particularly for cleaning wounds and sterilizing skin before surgeries. It is effective in killing bacteria, viruses, and fungi, making it a key component in solutions like povidone-iodine. In water treatment, iodine is employed to purify drinking water, especially in emergency situations or outdoor activities, by eliminating harmful microorganisms. Additionally, it plays a critical role in the production of thyroid hormones, which regulate metabolism, and is often added to table salt as potassium iodide to prevent iodine deficiency disorders like goiter. In industrial applications, iodine is used in the manufacture of dyes, pigments, and certain types of photography chemicals. It also serves as a catalyst in various chemical reactions, particularly in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals and organic compounds.