Sterilization: practice question

A Microbiology question in the style of the NEET PG paper. Answer it first, then read why the right option is right and why each of the others is wrong.

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Microbiology · Sterilization

Sample item

What does autoclaving use?

Original practice item, not a recalled exam question. Nothing here is recorded.

The answer and the reasoning

A. Pressurized steam

Autoclaving uses pressurized saturated steam to destroy microorganisms including spores when correct time and temperature are achieved.

Option by option

  • A. Pressurized steam (correct)

    Correct: steam under pressure sterilizes.

  • B. Ultraviolet light only

    UV has limited penetration.

  • C. Dry cold air

    Cold air does not sterilize reliably.

  • D. Alcohol wipe only

    Alcohol wipes do not reliably kill spores.

Source note: Original NextPrep sample item — pending expert review. This item is original practice material awaiting independent expert review, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.

More Microbiology questions

Questions about this Microbiology question

What is the answer to this Microbiology question?

The best answer is A, Pressurized steam. Autoclaving uses pressurized saturated steam to destroy microorganisms including spores when correct time and temperature are achieved.

Why is "Ultraviolet light only" not the answer?

UV has limited penetration.

Why is "Dry cold air" not the answer?

Cold air does not sterilize reliably.

Why is "Alcohol wipe only" not the answer?

Alcohol wipes do not reliably kill spores.

What concept does this question test?

It tests Sterilization in Microbiology. The correct option holds because: Correct: steam under pressure sterilizes.

How hard is this question?

We tag it as an application question: it asks you to use a fact on a patient or a finding. The tag is our own editorial judgement, not an official difficulty rating, so read the reason for every option, not only the answer.

How should I study Sterilization?

Make a one-line identity card for each organism: shape and stain, defining test, toxin, disease and drug. Then use the flashcards and the other Microbiology questions on this site to test what stuck.

Is this a real NEET PG question?

No. It is an original practice item (editorial status: sample, version 1). NextPrep does not publish recalled or leaked questions, and independent faculty review of this item has not been completed yet, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.