Sterilization: practice question

A Microbiology question in the style of the NEET PG paper. Answer it first, then read why the right option is right and why each of the others is wrong.

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Microbiology · Sterilization

Sample item

What process destroys all microorganisms including spores?

Original practice item, not a recalled exam question. Nothing here is recorded.

The answer and the reasoning

A. Sterilization

Sterilization eliminates all viable microorganisms including bacterial spores when validated methods and proper instrument processing are used.

Option by option

  • A. Sterilization (correct)

    Correct: sterilization includes destruction of spores.

  • B. Sanitation

    Sanitation reduces contamination but does not ensure sterility.

  • C. Disinfection

    Disinfection may not destroy bacterial spores.

  • D. Antisepsis

    Antisepsis is use of antimicrobial agents on living tissue.

Source note: Original NextPrep sample item — pending expert review. This item is original practice material awaiting independent expert review, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.

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Questions about this Microbiology question

What is the answer to this Microbiology question?

The best answer is A, Sterilization. Sterilization eliminates all viable microorganisms including bacterial spores when validated methods and proper instrument processing are used.

Why is "Sanitation" not the answer?

Sanitation reduces contamination but does not ensure sterility.

Why is "Disinfection" not the answer?

Disinfection may not destroy bacterial spores.

Why is "Antisepsis" not the answer?

Antisepsis is use of antimicrobial agents on living tissue.

What concept does this question test?

It tests Sterilization in Microbiology. The correct option holds because: Correct: sterilization includes destruction of spores.

How hard is this question?

We tag it as an application question: it asks you to use a fact on a patient or a finding. The tag is our own editorial judgement, not an official difficulty rating, so read the reason for every option, not only the answer.

How should I study Sterilization?

Make a one-line identity card for each organism: shape and stain, defining test, toxin, disease and drug. Then use the flashcards and the other Microbiology questions on this site to test what stuck.

Is this a real NEET PG question?

No. It is an original practice item (editorial status: sample, version 1). NextPrep does not publish recalled or leaked questions, and independent faculty review of this item has not been completed yet, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.