What is the process of destroying all microbes known as?

The process of destroying all microbes is referred to as sterilization. This method goes beyond disinfection, which typically reduces the number of microorganisms to a safe level but does not eliminate all of them. Sterilization ensures that not only bacteria but also viruses, fungi, and spores are completely eradicated from surfaces, instruments, or environments. It is essential in medical and laboratory settings where even the smallest number of pathogens could pose a threat to health.

Sanitization is concerned with reducing microbial counts to levels considered safe for public health but does not guarantee total destruction of microbes. Asepsis refers to practices aimed at preventing contamination by pathogens but does not specifically imply the complete destruction of all microbes. Therefore, sterilization is the term that accurately describes the complete elimination of all microbes, making it the correct choice in this context.