Process of killing all living organisms, including spores, usually by autoclaving at 121°C (15 psi) for 15–20 minutes.
Sterilization
Set of practices to prevent contamination, including disinfecting work areas, limiting air exposure, and using flames to kill microbes near vessel openings.
Aseptic technique
Introducing microorganisms into culture media (e.g., using a sterilized loop on agar or broth).
Inoculation
Growing microorganisms under controlled temperature (usually 37°C for pathogens, 25°C for environmental microbes) to allow visible growth.
Incubation
Petri dishes are placed upside down during incubation to prevent condensation from dripping onto agar.
Inverted plates
Petri dishes are secured with tape strips to prevent contamination while still allowing air exchange.
Sealing plates
Indicated by turbidity, hairy growth, distinct colonies, or solidification.
Microbial growth in broth
A visible cluster of identical bacteria grown from a single cell or group of cells.
Colony
Method of multiplying microorganisms in controlled laboratory media and conditions.
Microbial culture / Cultivation
Nutrient-containing liquid or gel that supports microbial growth.
Culture medium
A culture containing only one type of microorganism.
Pure culture
Standard method for isolating pure cultures by spreading bacteria over the agar surface to separate individual cells.
Streak-plate technique
Sterilization of used cultures and materials before disposal to ensure safety.
Decontamination
