Question
Which control mechanim(s) are physical mechanisms? Select all correct options Pasteurization Degermation Refrigeration Desiccation
Solution
4.3
(190 Votes)
Amora
Master ยท Tutor for 5 years
Answer
Degermation, refrigeration, and desiccation are physical control mechanisms.* **Degermation** is the physical removal of microbes from a limited area, such as swabbing skin with alcohol before an injection.* **Refrigeration** uses low temperatures to slow microbial growth and reproduction.* **Desiccation** or drying inhibits growth because metabolism requires liquid water.Pasteurization uses heat, but it's considered a *primarily* chemical control mechanism as the heat alters the chemical structure of key microbial molecules. While it involves a physical factor (temperature), the core mechanism of action is chemical change within the microbes.