the oligodynamic effect is a phenomenon that describes
Oligodynamic effect
short
a biocidal effect of metals , especially heavy metals , that occurs even in low concentrations
The oligodynamic effect ( from Greek oligos `` few '' , and dynamis `` force '' ) is a biocidal effect of metals , especially heavy metals , that occurs even in low concentrations . The effect was discovered by Karl Wilhelm von Nägeli , although he did not identify the cause . Brass doorknobs and silverware both exhibit this effect to an extent .