What does an autoclave use to achieve sterilization?

An autoclave achieves sterilization primarily through the use of steam under pressure. This process utilizes saturated steam at high temperatures, typically around 121-134 degrees Celsius (250-273 degrees Fahrenheit), combined with increased pressure to ensure that the steam penetrates all surfaces of the items being sterilized. The combination of heat, moisture, and pressure effectively destroys bacteria, viruses, fungal spores, and other microorganisms, making it a reliable method for sterilizing surgical instruments and other equipment used in medical and dental settings.

This mechanism is advantageous because the moisture in steam enhances heat transfer and helps to ensure that the entire surface of the object reaches the required temperature for the appropriate amount of time, leading to complete sterilization. Additionally, using steam under pressure reduces the time required to achieve sterilization compared to using dry heat alone.

In contrast, other methods mentioned in the choices, such as extreme heat, ultraviolet light, and ozone, while they can also be used for disinfection or sterilization in certain contexts, do not encompass the specific operational principle of an autoclave. Each of these alternatives operates under different mechanisms and has its own applications, but they do not utilize steam under pressure as the primary means for achieving sterilization.