Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician (ALAT) Practice Exam

What is the significance of chemical sterilants in lab environments?

1. They enhance nutrient absorption

2. They are used to kill or inactivate microorganisms

3. They provide structural support to materials

4. They act as a food source for microorganisms

The correct answer is: They are used to kill or inactivate microorganisms

Chemical sterilants play a crucial role in laboratory environments primarily because they are specifically formulated to kill or inactivate microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and spores. This function is vital in maintaining aseptic conditions to prevent contamination of experiments and ensure the safety of laboratory personnel, as well as the integrity of research results. By effectively eliminating unwanted pathogens, chemical sterilants help create a controlled environment where experiments can be conducted reliably without the interference of microbial growth. The other choices presented have no relevance to the role of chemical sterilants. For instance, enhancing nutrient absorption pertains to biological processes rather than microbial control. Providing structural support relates more to the materials used in lab construction, such as lab benches and shelving, rather than to the sterilization process. Lastly, acting as a food source for microorganisms is contrary to the purpose of a sterilant, which is to reduce or eliminate the presence of those microorganisms entirely. Thus, the primary significance of chemical sterilants in lab environments is their ability to ensure cleanliness and sterility through the inactivation of harmful microorganisms.