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Chemical Gases: Ethylene Oxide, Ozone, & Formaldehyde quiz

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  • What is ethylene oxide primarily used for in microbial control?
    Ethylene oxide is used as a gas sterilizer capable of killing all microbes, including endospores.
  • Why must ethylene oxide be removed from sterilized materials after treatment?
    Ethylene oxide is highly flammable, explosive, and potentially carcinogenic, so it must be removed for safety.
  • What type of chamber is required for ethylene oxide sterilization?
    A specialized chamber is needed to control variables like temperature, humidity, and gas concentration.
  • What is a major disadvantage of using ethylene oxide for sterilization?
    It requires long treatment times and poses risks due to its flammability and carcinogenicity.
  • How is ethylene oxide removed from treated materials?
    It is forced out with air after the sterilization process.
  • What types of items are best sterilized with ethylene oxide?
    Ethylene oxide is ideal for heat-sensitive and moisture-sensitive items like electrical equipment, mattresses, and pillows.
  • What is formalin and how is it related to formaldehyde?
    Formalin is a 37% aqueous solution of formaldehyde, used for microbial control.
  • How does formaldehyde kill microbes?
    It causes protein-DNA cross-linking, damaging DNA and denaturing proteins, which destroys microbes.
  • What is the chemical formula for formaldehyde?
    The chemical formula for formaldehyde is CH2O.
  • At what concentration is formaldehyde used as a disinfectant?
    Formaldehyde is used as a disinfectant at a 3% dilution.
  • What is the main mechanism by which formaldehyde destroys microbial cells?
    It covalently links proteins to DNA, leading to DNA damage and protein denaturation.
  • What is the chemical formula for ozone?
    Ozone's chemical formula is O3.
  • Why must ozone be generated on-site for microbial control?
    Ozone is highly unstable and decomposes quickly, so it must be produced where it is used.
  • How does ozone kill microbial cells?
    Ozone acts as a strong oxidizing agent, forming free radicals that cause cell lysis.
  • What is a common application of ozone in microbial control?
    Ozone is used as an alternative to chlorine for disinfecting water and protecting against UV light in the atmosphere.