Microbiology Sterilization Methods Quiz

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What temperature range is used in the holder method for sterilization?

63°C - 66°C (correct)

100°C - 110°C

72°C - 75°C

50°C - 60°C

What is the purpose of the Tyndallization method?

To achieve immediate sterilization

To ensure complete sterility in a single exposure

To eliminate spores on the 1st day

To kill vegetative organisms on the 2nd day (correct)

What is a limitation of boiling as a sterilization method?

Ineffective against spores (correct)

Primarily used for vaccine preparation

Ensures complete sterility in one cycle

Destroys all microbial life forms

In the flash method, at what temperature is sterilization achieved?

72°C Signup and view all the answers

Which physical method is the principal method for sterilizing heat-labile materials?

Filtration Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT an agent that denatures proteins?

Heavy metals Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary mechanism by which alcohols exert their antimicrobial activity?

Requiring the presence of water for activity Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is the primary mechanism by which halogens, such as chlorine and iodine, act as antimicrobials?

Inactivating enzymes Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary mechanism of action of silver nitrate as an antimicrobial agent?

Modifying the functional groups of proteins and nucleic acids Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is the most effective antimicrobial agent against viruses?

Halogens Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary mechanism of action of household bleach (sodium hypochlorite) as an antimicrobial agent?

Inactivating enzymes Signup and view all the answers

What is the main difference between an autoclave and a hot air sterilizer?

The autoclave uses saturated steam under pressure while the hot air sterilizer uses infra-red radiation. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of autoclaving in sterilization?

To kill all micro-organisms, including spores. Signup and view all the answers

Why is autoclave control essential in the sterilization process?

To monitor the heat levels at which the autoclave operates. Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of the dark color change in the Bowie Dick Method?

It signifies that sterilization has not been completed satisfactorily. Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes pasteurization from sterilization?

Pasteurization ensures destruction of non-spore forming organisms, while sterilization kills all micro-organisms. Signup and view all the answers

In what way does an autoclave differ from a steam-jacketed autoclave?

The standing table-top autoclave has a different order of indication than the steam-jacketed one. Signup and view all the answers

Which disinfectant is 10 times more effective than formaldehyde?

Glutaraldehyde Signup and view all the answers

Which type of item is Glutaraldehyde commonly used to disinfect?

Medical instruments like scalpels Signup and view all the answers

What is a common use of formaldehyde mentioned in the text?

Preserving tissues Signup and view all the answers

Which organism is NOT mentioned to be effectively targeted by phenols and their derivatives?

Viruses Signup and view all the answers

What makes glutaraldehyde an ideal disinfectant for critical items used in invasive procedures according to the text?

Broad spectrum activity Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a method of high-level disinfection according to the text?

Formaldehyde-free solution Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of using a cotton wool plug in tubes during the filtration of air?

To allow sterile air to enter Signup and view all the answers

Which type of filter is composed of compressed asbestos?

Seitz filter Signup and view all the answers

What is the main function of Gamma radiation and X-rays when used for sterilization?

Denature proteins and nucleic acids Signup and view all the answers

Which radiation type absorbs water molecules and then releases microwave energy as heat?

Microwave radiation Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of a Berkefield filter?

To trap bacteria, fungi, and extraneous materials Signup and view all the answers

What is the range of wavelengths for Ultraviolet light used to reduce the number of micro-organisms in air?

Between 250 and 270 nm Signup and view all the answers