In infection control, what is the key difference between sterilization and disinfection, with examples?

• A. Sterilization eliminates all microorganisms including spores (autoclave); disinfection reduces microbial load but may not kill spores (chlorine solution or alcohol).
• B. Disinfection eliminates all microorganisms including spores.
• C. Sterilization reduces microbial load but may not kill spores.
• D. Sterilization is only for liquids; disinfection is for surfaces.

Answer: (A)