Question

The mechanism of killing of bacteria in autoclaving process is

• A. Oxidising proteins
• B. Alkylating essential materials
• C. Coagulation of proteins
• D. Radiation

Hint:

Autoclaving uses high-pressure steam to kill bacteria by causing the coagulation of proteins within the bacterial cells.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the autoclaving process.
Autoclaving is a sterilization process that uses high-pressure steam to kill bacteria. The primary mechanism by which it kills bacteria is the coagulation of proteins, which denatures and inactivates the bacteria.
Step 2: Analyzing the options.
(A) Oxidising proteins: This is incorrect, as autoclaving primarily works by heat and pressure, not oxidation.
(B) Alkylating essential materials: This is not the main mechanism in autoclaving. Alkylation occurs in chemical sterilization processes.
(C) Coagulation of proteins: Correct — The heat and pressure in autoclaving cause the proteins in bacterial cells to coagulate, leading to the bacteria's death.
(D) Radiation: Radiation is a separate sterilization process, not the method used in autoclaving.
Step 3: Conclusion.
The correct answer is (C) Coagulation of proteins as it accurately describes the mechanism of bacterial death during autoclaving.