What is the main purpose of an autoclave in a laboratory setting?

The primary function of an autoclave in a laboratory is to sterilize lab equipment and media by utilizing high temperatures and pressure. This process is crucial in microbiology and other biological sciences to eliminate all forms of microbial life, including bacteria, viruses, and spores. The autoclave typically operates at temperatures around 121 degrees Celsius and pressures of about 15 psi, conditions that are sufficient to denature proteins and disrupt cellular structures, ensuring that all equipment, glassware, and culture media are free from contaminants.

The effectiveness of the autoclave in achieving sterilization makes it an essential piece of equipment for maintaining aseptic conditions in experiments and procedures, thereby promoting accuracy and reliability in scientific work.