Which term refers to the process of removing visible debris from surfaces?

The process of removing visible debris from surfaces is best described by the term cleaning. Cleaning involves the physical removal of dirt, dust, and other impurities from surfaces, which is essential in maintaining hygiene and preparing an area for further sanitation or disinfection processes.

While disinfection refers to the chemical process used to eliminate or reduce harmful microorganisms, and sanitizing indicates lowering the number of germs to a safe level, cleaning specifically targets visible debris. Decontamination is a broader term that encompasses both cleaning and disinfecting, but it does not exclusively refer to the act of removing visible debris. Thus, cleaning is the most accurate choice for this specific process.