____________ are substances that are applied to nonliving objects to kill, or eliminate pathogens.

• A. Disinfectants
• B. Sterilizers
• C. Vaccines
• D. Preservatives

Answer: (A)

Disinfectants are substances applied to nonliving surfaces to kill or inactivate pathogens. They reduce the microbial load on inanimate objects like countertops, equipment, and floors, helping prevent the spread of illness. They’re designed for surface decontamination and may not achieve complete sterility, especially against spores or highly resistant forms. Vaccines stimulate the immune system in living beings, not to decontaminate surfaces. Preservatives inhibit microbial growth inside products, rather than cleaning environmental surfaces. Sterilizers, on the other hand, are used to achieve complete sterility, including destruction of resistant spores, which goes beyond what disinfectants are intended to do.