Micropara lab

• What does microbiology study?

  Structure, functions, and applications of microbes
• What are the classifications of microbiological equipment?

  • Instruments for sterilization
  • Instruments for isolation, culturing, maintenance
  • Instruments for observations and assays
  • Glassware
  • Miscellaneous items
• Name one instrument required for sterilization.

  Autoclave
• What is the function of an autoclave?

  To sterilize using steam under pressure
• What is a Bunsen burner used for?

  Sterilizing inoculating tools and glassware
• How does a laminar flow hood work?

  It filters air to prevent contamination
• What is the purpose of an incubator?

  To provide optimum temperature for growth
• What is the role of a vortex mixer?

  To mix reagents during microbiological assays
• What does a centrifuge do?

  Separates substances based on size or mass
• What is the pH range of pure water?

  7 (neutral)
• How does moist heat differ from dry heat in sterilization?

  Moist heat penetrates better and kills faster
• What is the significance of using a pH meter in microbiology?

  To measure and set pH for microbial growth
• What are the physical methods to control microorganisms?

  • Heat
  • Filtration
  • Radiations
• What are the chemical methods for controlling microorganisms?

  • Ethylene Oxide
  • Alcohols (Ethanol, Isopropanol)
  • Halogens (Iodine, Chlorine)
  • Heavy metals (Silver, Copper)
  • Phenols
  • β-Propiolactone
• What is the main function of a Quebec Colony Counter?

  To count the number of colonies in a plate
• What is the role of a magnetic stirrer?

  To mix ingredients during media preparation
• What is the temperature range for bacterial spore destruction?

  Above 100ºC
• What is the importance of maintaining specific temperatures in an incubator?

  Different microbes have specific growth temperature needs
• How does the use of shaking water baths benefit microbial cultivation?

  It provides uniform heat and enhanced aeration
• What are the cardinal temperatures for microbial growth?

  • Minimum temperature
  • Optimum temperature
  • Maximum temperature
• What is the function of a thermometer in microbiology?

  To measure temperature of cultures
• What is the significance of using distilled water in microbiology?

  It is free from contaminants
• How do physical and chemical agents differ in their action against microorganisms?

  Physical agents kill, while chemical agents inhibit growth
• What is the role of immersion oil in microscopy?

  To improve resolution in microscopy
• What is the importance of using non-absorbent cotton in microbiology?

  To prevent contamination in cultures
• What is the purpose of a discard container in the lab?

  To safely dispose of hazardous materials
• Why is it important to avoid contamination during microbial culturing?

  To ensure accurate results and pure cultures
• How does the use of a microscope enhance the study of microbes?

  It allows for detailed observation of structures
• What is the purpose of a centrifuge in microbiology?

  Separating substances based on size or mass
• What are the three types of centrifuges based on speed?

  Low speed, high speed, ultra centrifuges
• What is the maximum speed of a low-speed centrifuge?

  5000 rpm
• What is the speed range of ultra centrifuges?

  20000 to 60000 rpm
• What does pH measure in a solution?

  Concentration of H+ ions in the solution
• What is the pH value of pure water?

  7
• What pH range do most bacteria prefer for growth?

  6.5 to 7.5
• What type of bacteria grow at acidic pH?

  Acidophiles
• What pH do most fungi prefer for growth?

  4 to 6
• How is a pH meter calibrated?

  Using standard buffers of pH 4, 7, and 9
• What is the main use of a refrigerator in a microbiology lab?

  Maintaining microbial cultures and media
• What is the function of a spectrophotometer?

  Measures light transmission or absorption