Which cleaning method is ineffective in removing baked-on oil deposits or most surface coatings?

The choice indicating hydrocarbon solvent as ineffective in removing baked-on oil deposits or most surface coatings is notable because, while hydrocarbon solvents can be effective for some degreasing tasks and lighter oils, they typically struggle with more tenacious deposits like those that are baked on. Baked-on oil usually requires more aggressive cleaning methods or higher temperatures to be dislodged, which hydrocarbon solvents may not provide.

In contrast, the other cleaning methods are designed to tackle tougher residues. Detergent cleaning, for instance, can enhance the solubility of oil deposits when combined with agitation and heat. Ultrasonic cleaning utilizes high-frequency sound waves in a liquid medium to create cavitation bubbles that effectively dislodge grime, even in small crevices. Steam cleaning employs high-temperature steam that helps to soften and lift stubborn deposits, making it a powerful method for dealing with baked-on materials.