The use of solutions, solvents, and other surfactants that help reduce the adhesion between the contaminant and the material being cleaned as part of the __________ decontamination method.

• A. Washing
• B. Sterilization
• C. Decontamination
• D. Disinfection

Answer: (A)

The use of solutions, solvents, and surfactants to reduce the adhesion of contaminants and help lift them from a surface is the hallmark of washing. Detergents and other cleaners loosen soils, emulsify them, and lower surface tension, enabling physical removal so contaminants can be flushed away. Sterilization and disinfection aim to kill or inactivate microbes, not primarily to detach and remove adhered soils. Decontamination is a broad term, but this description specifically matches washing as the method of removal aided by chemical agents.