The presence or growth of microorganisms in a sample is a type of:

• A. sterilization
• B. pasteurization
• C. contamination
• D. filtration

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the definitions of each term: Sterilization is the process of completely eliminating all forms of microbial life from a surface or medium.
2. Pasteurization is a heat treatment process that reduces the number of viable pathogens but does not eliminate all microorganisms.
3. Contamination refers to the unintended presence or growth of microorganisms in a sample or environment.
4. Filtration is a physical method used to remove microorganisms from liquids or air by passing them through a filter.
5. Since the problem asks about the presence or growth of microorganisms in a sample, identify which term directly describes this condition, which is contamination.