Final answer:
The absence of all forms of microbial life, including spores, is known as sterility. Sterility is achieved through sterilization protocols using sterilants. For tissue microbial control to prevent infection, antiseptics are used.
Step-by-step explanation:
The absence of all forms of microbial life, including spores, is known as sterility. Sterility is achieved through sterilization protocols, which can involve physical methods like high heat and pressure, or chemical methods using sterilants. A sterilant is a chemical agent that can kill all microbes, including viruses and hard-to-destroy endospores.
Regarding the control of microbes on tissues to prevent infection, the suitable option is an antiseptic. Antiseptics are antimicrobial substances safe for use on living tissues to reduce the risk of infection. They are used during medical procedures and can manage microbial loads without harming human tissue, unlike disinfectants, which are intended for inanimate objects.