Final answer:
Disinfectants are chemical products used to destroy or kill bacteria and some viruses. They are commonly used on non-living surfaces and damage cell components of bacteria through chemical reactions.
Step-by-step explanation:
The chemical products used to destroy or kill bacteria and some viruses (except bacterial spores) are called disinfectants. Disinfectants are commonly used on non-living surfaces such as laboratory benches and bathroom sinks. They damage cell components of bacteria through chemical reactions, such as with proteins and membranes.