Final answer:
Cold sterilization refers to methods that use low temperatures instead of high temperatures to kill or inactivate microorganisms. It can take a longer time compared to traditional heat-based methods. One common method, called cold chemical sterilization, involves immersing the object in a disinfectant solution for several hours or overnight.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the context of sterilization, cold sterilization refers to methods that use low temperatures instead of high temperatures to kill or inactivate microorganisms. While the term 'cold sterilization' might suggest a quick process, in reality, it can take a longer time compared to traditional heat-based methods. The duration of cold sterilization can vary depending on the specific method and the nature of the material being sterilized. For example, one common method, called cold chemical sterilization, involves immersing the object in a disinfectant solution for several hours or overnight.