Boiling

Definition

Boiling is the process of heating a liquid to its boiling point, causing it to vaporize. In microbiology, it is used to kill microorganisms by denaturing their proteins and disrupting cell membranes.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Boiling typically reaches a temperature of 100°C (212°F) at sea level.
2. Boiling for at least 10 minutes can kill most vegetative bacteria, viruses, and protozoa.
3. Endospores of certain bacteria, such as Bacillus and Clostridium species, are resistant to boiling and require higher temperatures for sterilization.
4. Boiling is not effective for sterilizing surgical instruments or other items that require complete sterility.
5. Water boils at lower temperatures at higher altitudes due to decreased atmospheric pressure, reducing its effectiveness.

Review Questions

• What temperature does water reach when it boils at sea level?
• Why are endospores resistant to boiling?
• How does altitude affect the boiling point of water?

Related terms

Pasteurization:

A heat treatment process that kills pathogenic microorganisms in food and beverages.

Autoclaving:

A sterilization method using steam under pressure to achieve higher temperatures than boiling.

Tyndallization: A method involving intermittent boiling and cooling to kill endospores over multiple cycles.