What do disinfectants accomplish?

Disinfectants are chemical agents designed to eliminate or reduce harmful microorganisms on surfaces. The primary function of disinfectants is to destroy a broad spectrum of pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi.

Choosing the correct option emphasizes that disinfectants are effective in achieving a high level of microbial kill, particularly of pathogens that can cause infections. This capability is critical in various environments, such as hospitals, laboratories, and food service areas, where controlling the spread of infectious agents is vital for public health and safety.

The other options do not encompass the complete scope of what disinfectants accomplish. While many disinfectants can effectively destroy bacteria, they also target viruses, making the assertion that they only eliminate bacteria inaccurate. Certain disinfectants may have the capability to destroy fungi and spores; however, this is not universally true for all disinfectants. Additionally, the claim about promoting the growth of beneficial microorganisms is contrary to what disinfectants do, as their purpose is to reduce or eliminate microbes rather than fostering their growth.