Which statement best distinguishes sterilization from disinfection in a microbiology lab?

Which statement best distinguishes sterilization from disinfection in a microbiology lab?

• A. Sterilization eliminates all life and endospores; disinfection reduces microbial load but may not destroy spores.
• B. Sterilization uses chemical agents only; disinfection uses heat only
• C. Disinfection eliminates all forms of life including spores; sterilization reduces microbial load
• D. Sterilization is only for liquids; disinfection only for surfaces

Answer: (C)