Which process is used to eliminate all forms of microbial life?

The process used to eliminate all forms of microbial life is sterilization. This method is essential in environments where eliminating any potential pathogens is critical, such as in medical settings, laboratories, and certain esthetic practices. Sterilization can be achieved through various means, including heat (autoclaving), chemicals, or gases, all of which ensure that bacteria, viruses, fungi, and spores are completely destroyed.

Sanitation, disinfection, and cleaning serve different purposes. Sanitation reduces the number of microorganisms to safe levels, disinfection refers to killing a significant number of pathogens but may not eliminate all forms of microbial life, and cleaning is the removal of dirt and impurities from surfaces without necessarily affecting the microorganisms present. Therefore, while these methods are important for maintaining hygiene and safety, they do not reach the complete elimination that sterilization guarantees.