List three issues to consider when killing an organism and explain each.

What will be an ideal response?

Possible answers include:

Initial number of organisms: the more present will influence the method we need to use.
Presence of spores: spores require special techniques.
Environment: a rough surface must be physically cleaned to expose all surfaces.
Exposure time: the longer the exposure to the agent the more effective the treatment.
Temperature: increasing the temperature 10°C approximately doubles the killing rate.