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What method of destruction is required for bacterial spores?

1) Autoclaving
2) Incineration
3) Chemical disinfection
4) Radiation

1 Answer

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Final answer:

Autoclaving is the most effective method for destroying bacterial spores through the application of moist heat at high pressure. Incineration and high-level germicides can also achieve this, but chemical disinfection alone is often not sufficient.

Step-by-step explanation:

Methods of Destruction for Bacterial Spores

The question asks what method of destruction is required for bacterial spores. Autoclaving is one of the most effective methods used for the sterilization of bacterial spores. This process involves the application of moist heat at high pressure, which penetrates cells and kills all forms of microbial life, including highly resistant spores.

It is worth mentioning that other methods such as incineration and certain high-level germicides are also capable of destroying bacterial spores. Incineration exposes microbes to very high temperatures, ensuring complete destruction. On the other hand, chemical disinfection may not be sufficiently effective against bacterial spores, as these require high-level germicides capable of sterilization.

Radiation can be an effective sterilization method for heat-sensitive materials through the use of ionizing radiation, such as gamma radiation, but it is not the primary method for the destruction of bacterial spores.

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