What refers to the destruction of pathogenic organisms on inanimate surfaces?

The term that refers to the destruction of pathogenic organisms on inanimate surfaces is disinfection. Disinfection involves the use of chemicals or physical agents to kill or inactivate harmful microorganisms, thereby reducing their numbers to a level that is safe to public health. Surfaces that can be disinfected include countertops, medical equipment, and any other non-living items that may harbor infectious agents.

By focusing on inanimate surfaces, disinfection plays a crucial role in infection control, particularly in healthcare settings where the risk of pathogen transmission is high. It is important to differentiate disinfection from other related processes such as sanitization, which reduces bacteria to safe levels but doesn't necessarily kill all pathogens, and antisepsis, which is specifically aimed at reducing microorganisms on living tissues. Degermination refers to the mechanical process of removing dirt and transient microorganisms from the skin but does not fully describe the act of eliminating pathogens from surfaces.