What is the process called that involves the destruction of all microorganisms, including spores, on inanimate objects?

The process that involves the destruction of all microorganisms, including spores, on inanimate objects is known as sterilization. This process is critical in medical and surgical settings to ensure that all potential pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, and spores, are eliminated. Sterilization can be achieved through various methods, such as autoclaving (steam under pressure), dry heat, ethylene oxide gas, or radiation.

Asepsis refers to the practice of preventing contamination by pathogens during medical procedures, while sanitization is the process of reducing the number of microorganisms to safe levels, but it does not eliminate all organisms or spores. Disinfection, on the other hand, involves the use of chemical agents to kill most microorganisms on surfaces, but it may not destroy all spores. Therefore, sterilization is the only process that guarantees complete eradication, making it the correct answer in this context.