Boiling is not reliable for sterilization because
A) heat-sensitive instruments may be destroyed.
B) water boils at a higher temperature at lower altitudes.
C) heat-resistant endospores are unaffected.
D) viruses are more sensitive to heat than bacteria.
E) most pathogens are heat stable.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Boiling is not reliable for sterilization because heat-resistant endospores are unaffected. Boiling can kill vegetative cells of most bacteria and viruses, but endospores can survive boiling. Therefore, boiling is not a reliable method for sterilization, especially in medical or laboratory settings where complete sterilization is crucial.

Boiling Is Not Reliable for Sterilization Because