Chemical Agents for Microbial Control

What is a chemical used on inanimate objects, such as medical instruments, to kill all organisms except spores?

Final answer: A disinfectant (option b) is used on inanimate objects to kill all organisms except spores.

A disinfectant is used on inanimate objects to kill all organisms except spores. It reduces microbes to a safe level on non-living surfaces but does not achieve sterilization. An antiseptic is used on living tissues for microbial control to prevent infection.

Explanation: A chemical used on inanimate objects, such as medical instruments, to kill all organisms except spores is known as a disinfectant. Disinfectants are used on non-living surfaces to reduce the number of microbes to a safe level, though they do not achieve complete sterilization as they do not kill-resistant microbial spores. For example, chlorine bleach is a widely used disinfectant that can inactivate most microbes on surfaces such as laboratory benches and clinical instruments. In healthcare settings, using the right type of antimicrobial products is crucial for infection control and sanitation. An antiseptic, on the other hand, is suitable for use on living tissues to control microbes and to prevent infection.