GED Science Practice

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Which term refers to an agent that destroys microorganisms that might carry disease?

Diabetes
Diaphragm
Disinfectant
Distillation

The correct answer is: Disinfectant

The term that refers to an agent that destroys microorganisms that might carry disease is disinfectant. Disinfectants are chemical substances specifically designed to kill or inactivate harmful pathogens, ensuring surfaces, instruments, and environments are safe from infectious agents. They are commonly used in medical settings, laboratories, and households to prevent the spread of diseases by eliminating bacteria, viruses, and fungi. In contrast, diabetes is a chronic health condition related to insulin production and blood sugar regulation, making it unrelated to the destruction of microorganisms. The diaphragm is a muscle involved in respiration and does not have a role in microbial control. Distillation, while a method used to purify liquids by heating and cooling, does not specifically target microorganisms and is primarily used to separate substances based on boiling points. Understanding these definitions clarifies why disinfectant is the correct choice for the question regarding the eradication of disease-carrying microorganisms.