Standard Autoclave Protocol

Question

Temperature-time protocol for sterilization inside autoclave:

Select an answer

Temperature-time protocol for sterilization inside autoclave:

  1. $121^{0}C/15$ lbs/15 min — Correct Answer
  2. $121^{0}C/15~lbs/15$ sec
  3. $121^{0}C/21$ lbs/15 min
  4. 111°C/15 lbs/15 min
Explanation:
Correct Answer: 121°C / 15 lbs / 15 min

The standard temperature-time protocol for sterilization inside an autoclave (moist heat sterilization) is 121°C / 15 lbs (pressure) / 15 minutes. This is also the condition used for autoclaving soybean to destroy trypsin inhibitors.

Temperature-Time Protocols — All Instruments
Instrument Temperature Pressure Time
Autoclave 121°C 15 lbs/in² 15 min
Hot air oven 160°C 1 hour
Hot air oven (alt) 170°C 40 min
Hot air oven (alt) 180°C 20 min
Muffle furnace 600°C 1–2 hours
Practical Applications of Autoclave Conditions
  • Sterilisation of culture media, surgical instruments, glassware
  • Destruction of trypsin inhibitor in soybean (anti-nutritional factor)
  • Destruction of Ricin in castor bean (by moist heat)
Why Other Options Are Wrong
  • 121°C/15 lbs/15 sec → 15 seconds is far too short; sterilisation is not achieved
  • 121°C/21 lbs/15 min → 21 lbs pressure is not the standard autoclave pressure
  • 111°C/15 lbs/15 min → lower temperature; inadequate for complete sterilisation

📚 About this Topic — Animal Nutrition

This multiple choice question is from Animal Nutrition, Animal Refresher. It has 4 options with a detailed explanation of the correct answer. Practice more MCQs from Animal Nutrition to strengthen your preparation.

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