IBIO 209 CSU East Bay Biology Worksheet
Homework 7
All answers must be in your own words. Answers copied directly from the textbook, PowerPoint, or an online source will not be given credit.
Each question is worth 2 points.
1. Imagine that a parent has brought their child in for a routine vaccination. They say, “Before you give my child the shot, make sure to sanitize their skin!” Should you sanitize their child’s skin? Why or why not? Make sure to show your understanding of the word sanitize in your answer.
2. Explain the statement from your textbook, “Destroying them (endospores) is the goal of sterilization.” Make sure to explain what an endospore is and show your understanding of the word sterilization in your answer.
3. Why is hydrogen peroxide so effective against anaerobes like Clostridium tetani that have infected a puncture wound? Make sure to explain what an anaerobe is as well as the action of hydrogen peroxide in your answer.
4. Why would surfactants be more effective against gram-negative bacteria than against grampositive bacteria? Make sure to show your understanding of the differences between the two types of bacteria.
5. Is pasteurization considered sterilization? Explain your reasoning.
6. Clostridium difficile spores can often be found on all surfaces of an infected patient’s room (even the ceiling!) Consider the different types of surfaces and propose a plan to sterilize a C. difficile contaminated room.
