In which condition is a process considered sterilized?

A process is considered sterilized when all microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and their spores, are completely eliminated from an object or surface. This ensures that the item is free from any living pathogens that could pose a risk of infection or disease. In medical and dental practices, sterilization is crucial for ensuring the safety of patients and the effectiveness of procedures.

In contrast, the other options describe different levels of cleanliness but do not meet the definition of sterilization. Visible contaminants being removed refers to cleaning but does not guarantee the destruction of all microorganisms. Cleaning without disinfecting implies that while dirt and debris may be removed, pathogens could still survive. Similarly, placing tools in a cleaning solution might assist in reducing contamination but does not ensure that all microorganisms have been eliminated. Therefore, the correct answer reflects the comprehensive nature of sterilization, which is necessary in healthcare settings to prevent infection.