What is formed when water in the autoclave is heated at 15 PSI and 121 degrees Celsius?

When water in the autoclave is heated at 15 PSI and 121 degrees Celsius, it forms saturated steam. This occurs because at this specific pressure and temperature, water reaches a state where it can coexist in both liquid and vapor phases. In an autoclave, the pressure is raised above atmospheric levels, allowing water to boil at a higher temperature than it would under normal conditions.

Saturated steam is important in sterilization processes because it effectively kills microorganisms, including bacteria and spores. The application of heat through saturated steam ensures that the materials being sterilized, such as surgical instruments or dental tools, reach the necessary temperature required for effective sterilization.

In contrast, superheated vapor is steam that has been heated beyond its saturation temperature without increasing pressure, resulting in a state that does not include liquid water. Condensed water refers to water in its liquid state, which wouldn't be present when considering steam formation in an autoclave at the specified conditions. Lastly, dry heat is a separate sterilization method that does not involve the use of steam and operates through different principles. Thus, the formation of saturated steam is a crucial aspect of autoclaving.