The vast majority of contaminants and pathogens can be washed from the surface through ______.

• A. proper cleaning
• B. deep scrubbing
• C. high heat
• D. chemical degreasing

Answer: (B)

The key idea is that most contaminants are removed from a surface through mechanical action combined with rinsing. Friction from scrubbing helps loosen and lift dirt, oils, and microorganisms from the tiny crevices and pores of the surface so they can be carried away by water. Deep scrubbing provides enough physical agitation to dislodge stubborn residues that might cling even after a light wipe, making washing far more effective at clearing contaminants than gentler cleaning alone. While high heat can kill many pathogens, it doesn’t physically remove them from the surface, and chemical degreasing targets oils rather than providing the thorough physical removal of microbes. So, the best fit for washing away the majority of contaminants is the thorough, mechanical action of deep scrubbing.