The Conditions Necessary to Destroy Endospores Are

Question

The conditions necessary to destroy endospores are
A)Boiling at 100⁰C for 15 minutes.
B)Heating to 110⁰C for 30 minutes.
C)Heating to 115⁰C for 10 minutes.
D)Heating to 121⁰C for 15 minutes.
E)Any temperature above 100⁰C for 3 minutes.

Accepted Answer

Endospores are the most resistant form of microbial life and can withstand harsh environmental conditions. The most effective way to destroy endospores is by autoclaving, the process of heating at 121⁰C for 15-20 minutes under pressure. Therefore, heating to 121⁰C for 15 minutes is the best choice to destroy endospores. Options A, B, and C are not sufficient enough to destroy endospores. Option E is too general and does not specify the length of time required at temperatures above 100⁰C.