What is one of the primary ways bacteria can be killed?

The destruction of the cell membrane is one of the primary ways bacteria can be killed because the cell membrane is essential for maintaining the integrity of the bacterial cell. When the cell membrane is compromised, the bacteria can no longer maintain their internal environment, leading to cell death. This process can occur through various means, such as certain antibiotics that specifically target the bacterial cell wall or membrane, disrupting its structural integrity.

While exposure to UV light is effective in sterilizing surfaces by damaging DNA, it does not directly destroy the bacterial cell membrane. Freezing temperatures can inhibit bacterial growth but do not effectively kill bacteria; many bacteria can survive freezing and can become active again when conditions are favorable. The mention of using antibiotics only overlooks the numerous ways bacteria can be combated, as it is crucial to understand that there are other effective methods beyond antibiotics for killing bacteria.