What is the primary function of pathology in a medical context?

The primary function of pathology in a medical context revolves around diagnosing diseases through a thorough examination of tissues, organs, bodily fluids, and autopsies. Pathologists utilize laboratory techniques and equipment, such as microscopes, to analyze samples and identify abnormalities that may indicate the presence of disease. This role is essential in healthcare, as accurate diagnosis is crucial for determining the appropriate treatment and managing patient care effectively.

In contrast, the other options refer to different areas of focus. The creation of products using biotechnology pertains more to bioengineering and the development of therapeutic drugs or organisms. Understanding chemical processes in industry aligns with fields such as chemical engineering or industrial chemistry and does not directly relate to medical diagnosis. Determining the properties of substances using Safety Data Sheets (SDS) is primarily associated with safety and regulatory compliance in handling chemicals, rather than with the medical diagnosis of diseases.