Final answer:
The layer of a surgical instrument created by the passivation process is called passivating film. Passivation is the process of creating a protective nonreactive film of oxide or other compound on the surface of metals to create a barrier for chemical reactions.
Step-by-step explanation:
The layer of a surgical instrument created by the passivation process is called passivating film. Passivation is the process of creating a protective nonreactive film of oxide or other compound on the surface of metals to create a barrier for chemical reactions. This film prevents the metal from corroding and allows it to demonstrate its expected chemical reactivity when the film is removed physically or chemically.