Final answer:
Microbicidal agents or conditions that kill microorganisms are referred to as microbicides and can be substances like disinfectants or antiseptics, or physical agents like heat or radiation. The effectiveness of these agents can vary based on concentration, temperature, and exposure time.
Step-by-step explanation:
Agents or conditions that kill microorganisms rather than just preventing their growth are referred to as microbicidal agents, or simply microbicides. These can include chemical substances, such as disinfectants and antiseptics, as well as physical agents like heat, cold, and radiation. High-level germicides are capable of killing a wide range of microorganisms, including vegetative cells, fungi, viruses, and even resistant forms like endospores, leading to sterilization. In comparison, intermediate-level and low-level germicides may be effective against vegetative bacteria and certain viruses but not against more resilient organisms such as endospores.
When considering the effectiveness of a germicide, several factors must be taken into account including the concentration of the disinfectant, the temperature at which it is used, and the length of exposure time. Conditions such as the presence of biological fluids or biofilms can also affect the effectiveness of germicides, requiring increased concentration or exposure time to achieve the desired level of control.