Final answer:
Ethylene oxide is the correct choice for achieving sterilization, as it is capable of sterilizing heat-sensitive medical and laboratory equipment through gas sterilization.
Step-by-step explanation:
Sterilization can be achieved by using ethylene oxide, making option D) Ethylene oxide the correct answer. Ethylene oxide is a type of alkylating agent used for gaseous sterilization. Due to its high penetrability, it can sterilize items contained within plastic bags, such as catheters, disposable laboratory items, and other pieces of medical equipment. Since ethylene oxide is suitable for cold sterilization, it is particularly useful for items that are sensitive to heat.
Chemicals like alcohol (ethanol or isopropyl alcohol), often at a concentration of around 70%, are commonly used as antiseptics rather than sterilants. They function by denaturing proteins and disrupting cell membranes. Chlorine - another antimicrobial chemical - acts as a disinfectant by oxidizing cellular components.
Soap, while useful for cleaning, is not considered a sterilant as it does not achieve the complete removal or destruction of all microbes including endospores and viruses.