Final answer:
Degerming is the physical removal of microbes, typically done by washing with soap or an alcohol swab. Antiseptics are suitable for microbial control on tissues, while filters physically remove microbes from samples. Sterilization is the most effective method, aiming to eliminate all microorganisms.
Step-by-step explanation:
Degerming is the correct answer to the student's question, which is the physical removal of microbes. This term refers to reducing microbial numbers by a physical means, such as handwashing with soap or wiping the skin with an alcohol swab. It does not completely eliminate microbes but removes most of them from the skin's surface.
For use on living tissues to prevent infection, an antiseptic is the correct choice (e.g., applying iodine on a wound), which is safe for use on tissues for microbial control.
Filtration is a method that physically removes microbes from samples without necessarily killing them, such as using a filter to clean the air or sterilize liquids.
Disinfectants are used on inanimate surfaces to reduce the number of microbes, while antiseptics are used on living tissue. The effectiveness of a disinfectant may vary based on factors such as concentration, contact time, and the presence of organic matter.
Sterilization is the most effective method at removing microbes from a product because it aims for the complete eradication of all vegetative cells, endospores, and viruses from the item or environment. It can be executed through physical means like heat, pressure, or filtration, or chemical means using sterilants.