Which of the following methods is typically used for sterilizing laboratory equipment?

Autoclaving is a widely used method for sterilizing laboratory equipment because it employs steam under pressure to achieve sterilization. This process effectively kills all microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and spores, by subjecting them to high temperatures (usually around 121-134°C) for a specific period. The combination of heat and pressure ensures that even the most resistant bacterial spores are destroyed, making autoclaving the gold standard for sterilization in many laboratory and medical settings.

In contrast to sterilization, other methods like chemical disinfectants and filtration are primarily used for disinfection and cannot guarantee the complete elimination of all microbial life. While dry heat can also be used for sterilizing certain materials, it is generally less effective than moist heat methods like autoclaving. Therefore, when complete sterility is required, autoclaving is the preferred and most reliable method.