The process of killing or removing all of the microorganisms in or on a material is called:

• A. Disinfection
• B. Antisepsis
• C. Sanitization
• D. Sterilization

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the definitions of each term related to microbial control: Disinfection, Antisepsis, Sanitization, and Sterilization.
2. Disinfection refers to the process of eliminating many or all pathogenic microorganisms, except bacterial spores, on inanimate objects.
3. Antisepsis is the process of applying antimicrobial agents to living tissue to reduce the possibility of infection, sepsis, or putrefaction.
4. Sanitization involves reducing the number of microorganisms to a safe level as judged by public health standards, often used for cleaning surfaces.
5. Sterilization is the process that kills or removes all forms of microbial life, including bacterial spores, making the material completely free of microorganisms.