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| Definition | A reproductive cell produced by plants (fungi, moss, ferns) and some protozoa and bacteria. Bacteria also produce spores as a defensive mechanism. Bacterial spores have thick walls, and are able to withstand varying temperatures, humidity, and other unfavorable conditions. |
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| Information | Disinfection using chemicals kills bacteria, but does not destroy their spores. Sterilization involves destruction of spores as well as bacteria, and requires high temperatures and high pressures. In health-care settings, sterilization is usually accomplished using a device called an autoclave . |
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