What equipment is used to sterilize articles by means of steam under pressure?

The use of an autoclave is fundamental in microbiology laboratories, as it effectively sterilizes materials and equipment by utilizing steam under high pressure and high temperature. The process of autoclaving typically involves heating water past its boiling point, which generates steam. This steam is then trapped within a sealed chamber where the pressure increases, raising the temperature beyond the standard boiling point of water (100 degrees Celsius). The combination of high temperature and pressure destroys microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and spores, making it a reliable method for sterilization.

In a laboratory setting, the autoclave is essential for preparing culture media, sterilizing glassware, and ensuring that instruments are free of any contaminants before experiments or clinical procedures, thus greatly reducing the risk of infection or experimental error. Other equipment, such as incubators and refrigerators, serve different functions, such as maintaining specific temperatures for growth or preservation, while microscopes are used for observing specimens. Hence, in the context of sterilization, the autoclave is the appropriate choice.