What best describes the difference between a pathogen and a non-pathogen?

The distinction between pathogens and non-pathogens is fundamentally based on their potential to cause disease. Pathogens are defined as microorganisms—such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites—that can invade the body and elicit an immune response, leading to illness. Their ability to cause disease can range from mild to severe, depending on various factors such as the individual's health and the virulence of the pathogen.

On the other hand, non-pathogens are organisms that do not cause disease in healthy individuals. These can include beneficial bacteria that are a part of the normal flora of the human body, playing crucial roles in processes such as digestion and immune system function. Non-pathogens are considered safe and often contribute positively to health rather than posing a risk of disease.

The option highlighting that pathogens have the potential to cause disease while non-pathogens do not accurately captures the essence of their definitions and roles in health and disease. It underscores the critical differences in their impact on human health, helping to outline why understanding these classifications is vital in fields such as medicine and dental nursing.