Questions: Which method would be LEAST effective at sterilizing a glass hockey stick to use in the spread-plate method? A. Gamma radiation B. Ultrahigh-temperature pasteurization C. Soaking in Ethanol D. Autoclaving

The answer is B: Ultrahigh-temperature pasteurization.

Explanation for each option:

A. Gamma radiation: This method is highly effective at sterilizing various materials, including glass. Gamma radiation can penetrate deeply and kill all forms of microbial life, including spores.

B. Ultrahigh-temperature pasteurization: This method is primarily used for sterilizing food and beverages by heating them to very high temperatures for a short period. It is not suitable for sterilizing glassware or other laboratory equipment because it does not guarantee the elimination of all microbial life, especially spores.

C. Soaking in Ethanol: Ethanol is a common disinfectant and can be effective at sterilizing surfaces by killing bacteria, viruses, and fungi. However, it may not be as effective as other methods for sterilizing items that need to be completely free of all microbial life, including spores.

D. Autoclaving: This method uses high-pressure steam at temperatures above boiling point and is one of the most effective ways to sterilize laboratory equipment, including glassware. It ensures the elimination of all microbial life, including spores.

Summary: Ultrahigh-temperature pasteurization would be the least effective method for sterilizing a glass hockey stick to use in the spread-plate method because it is not designed to sterilize laboratory equipment and does not guarantee the elimination of all microbial life.