Summary
Methods that eliminate contaminating microbes so cultures and procedures stay pure.
In depth
Methods: autoclave at 121 °C for 15 minutes, flame, filtration, UV and chemical disinfectants. Aseptic technique includes flaming loops, working near a flame, and lids kept on dishes.
Sterilisation kills all life including endospores; disinfection reduces pathogens.
Sterilisation methods suit materials: heat-sensitive liquids are filtered. Indicators confirm autoclave success. Disinfectants differ in spectrum.
Remember: aseptic means excluding unwanted microbes.
Frequently asked questions
What is Sterilisation and Aseptic Technique?
Methods that eliminate contaminating microbes so cultures and procedures stay pure.
Which area of biology covers Sterilisation and Aseptic Technique, and how advanced is it?
Sterilisation and Aseptic Technique is one of the 54 topics in Microbiology. It is rated Beginner, so it suits learners who are starting out in biology. Related topics in this area include Endospores, Microorganisms, Pathogens.
Can you give an example of Sterilisation and Aseptic Technique?
Petri dishes are incubated upside-down to avoid condensation.
What should I learn before Sterilisation and Aseptic Technique?
Sterilisation and Aseptic Technique is a Beginner topic, so no earlier topic is required. Other Beginner topics in Microbiology that pair well with it include Microorganisms, Bacteria, Archaea.
What topics are related to Sterilisation and Aseptic Technique?
The closest topics to Sterilisation and Aseptic Technique are Endospores, Microorganisms, Pathogens, Growth Curve. Comparing them side by side is a good way to see how the ideas connect.
How can I check that I understand Sterilisation and Aseptic Technique?
Read the summary and the in-depth section, then use the quick check on the interactive lesson for Sterilisation and Aseptic Technique. To practise the whole of Microbiology, use the Microbiology quiz.
How is Sterilisation and Aseptic Technique different from Endospores?
Sterilisation and Aseptic Technique: Methods that eliminate contaminating microbes so cultures and procedures stay pure. Endospores: Dormant, highly resistant structures produced by Bacillus and Clostridium to survive harsh conditions. Read both side by side and note what each one explains.
How should I study Sterilisation and Aseptic Technique step by step?
First, read the summary and write the definition in your own words. Second, read the in-depth section and note any example. Third, compare it with Endospores and explain the difference aloud. Finally, take the Microbiology quiz and come back to this page for any question you miss.