Multiple choice general knowledge science & technology

An autoclave is designed to sterilize with:

  1. dry heat and methane gas

  2. steam and pressure

  3. boiling water

  4. dessication

Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
B Correct answer
Explanation

Autoclaves sterilize using saturated steam under pressure (typically 121°C, 15 psi for 15-20 minutes). The pressure allows steam to reach temperatures above 100°C without boiling, effectively killing all microorganisms including spores. Dry heat (A) requires higher temperatures (160-170°C) for longer durations.