Which of the following terms refers to the elimination of pathogens on surfaces?

The term that refers to the elimination of pathogens on surfaces is "disinfecting." Disinfecting involves using chemical substances to kill a wide range of microorganisms, specifically targeting bacteria, viruses, and fungi. This process is crucial in both nail salons and other service environments to ensure that tools and surfaces are free from harmful pathogens that can lead to infections or the spread of disease.

Disinfecting goes beyond simply cleaning, which primarily removes dirt and debris but may not necessarily kill germs. While sanitizing also reduces the number of microbes to a safe level, it does not have the same potency as disinfecting, which provides a higher level of pathogen elimination. Antiseptic treatment, on the other hand, refers to substances applied to the skin to reduce the risk of infection, but it does not pertain specifically to cleaning or disinfecting surfaces. Thus, the focus of disinfecting on pathogen elimination on surfaces makes it the correct term in this context.