Biosafety Cabinets and Sterilization Quiz

Questions and Answers

What is the primary function of a laboratory bag mixer?

To blend solid samples for homogenization (correct)

To store samples at low temperatures

To dispense controlled amounts of solutions

To count colonies on agar plates

Which statement about the plate centrifuge is correct?

It prepares solid sample mixtures only

It creates pellets by freezing samples

It uses high temperatures for separation

It separates denser substances by spinning them away from the central axis (correct)

What is the main purpose of using an ultra-low freezer in microbiology?

To incubate samples for rapid growth

To sterilize equipment and materials

To grow microbes at a controlled temperature

For cryogenic storage of reference cultures at -80°C (correct)

How does the optical film function when used with well-plates?

To seal the well-plates and prevent evaporation Signup and view all the answers

What role does the colony counter play in microbiology laboratories?

It counts microbial colonies on agar plates Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a common inoculating technique?

Spreading the sample with pipette Signup and view all the answers

What is the main function of an automatic dispenser in a laboratory?

To control the dispensing volume of solutions Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary use of cryogenic storage vials in a laboratory?

To store biological material safely Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of using an autoclave in a microbiology lab?

To sterilize media and tools Signup and view all the answers

Which setting on an autoclave is considered standard for effective sterilization?

121 C, 15 mins, 1.5 psi Signup and view all the answers

What is the main function of a biosafety cabinet in a microbiology laboratory?

To provide a sterile workspace and protect users from exposure Signup and view all the answers

What is an essential practice for maintaining sterility during lab procedures?

Employing aseptic techniques Signup and view all the answers

How does an incubator typically maintain a constant temperature for samples?

By heating water to a set temperature over time Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a guideline for the use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) in the lab?

Using open-toed shoes for better ventilation Signup and view all the answers

What is an important aspect of maintaining microbiological cultures over time?

Following best practices for culture integrity Signup and view all the answers

Which statement about refrigeration in microbiology is true?

Refrigeration slows down microbial growth significantly. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of a Biosafety Cabinet (BSC)?

To prevent contamination from outside sources. Signup and view all the answers

What is a key feature of the air flow in a Biosafety Cabinet?

It has negative air flow that prevents contamination. Signup and view all the answers

Why should alcohol lamps not be used for prolonged periods inside a Biosafety Cabinet?

They disrupt the air flow of the BSC. Signup and view all the answers

What is the main purpose of incubators in microbiology?

To maintain specific temperatures for sample incubation. Signup and view all the answers

What does annual calibration of incubators ensure?

The maintenance of precise temperature settings over time. Signup and view all the answers

How does a water bath function in microbiological procedures?

It maintains a specific temperature to prevent agar from solidifying. Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the functions of a refrigerator in microbiological contexts?

To suspend bacterial suspensions and store reagents. Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of having a HEPA filter in a Biosafety Cabinet?

It prevents contamination by filtering out airborne particles. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Biosafety Cabinet (BSC)

Provides protection from contamination by external sources, preventing sample contamination.
Does not prevent contamination by the analyst; practicing aseptic techniques is essential.
Equipped with a HEPA filter to maintain sterile conditions.
Has negative airflow to ensure contaminants are kept out, crucial for maintaining safety.
Alcohol lamps should not be used inside BSCs to avoid disruption of airflow.

Incubator

Used to maintain constant temperatures for sample incubation.
Calibrated annually to ensure precise temperature settings.
Plays a essential role in experimental consistency for microbiological studies.

Water Bath

Similar to an incubator, but specialized for maintaining the temperature of agar media.
Prevents agar from solidifying, allowing for effective use in experiments.

Refrigerator

Essential for storing prepared media and reagents.
Supports the maintenance of bacterial suspensions and cell storage.
Comes in various types, optimizing storage conditions for different laboratory needs.

Good Laboratory Practices (GLP)

Adheres to FDA regulations for laboratory safety and efficacy.
Lab sections must be distinct to minimize cross-contamination and optimize workflow.
Aseptic technique is crucial for maintaining sterility and preventing contamination.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) guidelines must be followed to ensure safety in the lab.
Best practices for maintaining microbiological cultures to ensure their integrity over time.
Quality assurance processes include routine checks and proper documentation to uphold lab standards.

Autoclave

Sterilization device set at 121°C, 15 minutes, and 1.5 psi for media and tools.
Also used for decontamination settings, typically at 30 minutes.
Employs steam under pressure to effectively kill bacteria.

Plate Centrifuge

Designed for spinning down denser substances to separate them from liquids.
Useful in RT-PCR protocols, facilitating quick processing in microplates.
Generates a pellet of concentrated cells during centrifugation.

Laboratory Bag Mixer

Functions as a homogenizer for preparing solid samples.
Paddle blender ensures thorough mixing and preparation in sample and broth.

Automatic Dispenser

Allows for controlled and adjustable dispensing of solutions, streamlining laboratory workflows.

Ultra-Low Freezer

Critical for the storage of reference cultures at -80°C.
Accommodates cryogenic storage vials for preserving biological material.

Colony Counter

Used to count microbial colonies on agar plates, ensuring proper quantification.
Manual counting options allow for flexibility in counting isolated or overlapping colonies.

Studying That Suits You

Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.

Description

This quiz covers essential concepts related to biosafety cabinets (BSC) and sterilization techniques. Understand how to prevent contamination in laboratory settings, focusing specifically on the roles of analysts in maintaining sample integrity. Test your knowledge on the total destruction of organisms and sanitizing methods.