The thermal death time is the
A) time required for a tenfold reduction in the population density at a given temperature.
B) time it takes to kill all cells at a given temperature.
C) measure of the radiation energy output from a source.
D) dose of radiation necessary for a tenfold reduction in the numbers of selected microorganisms or biological functions.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The thermal death time is the time it takes to kill all cells at a given temperature, usually determined for a specific microorganism or cell type. It is often used in the food industry to determine the appropriate heating time and temperature to achieve sterilization. Choice A refers to the decimal reduction time, choice C refers to radiation energy output, and choice D refers to the radiation dose necessary for a specific outcome.

The Thermal Death Time Is the