This is a real-world medical entrance exam question, please give the true answer based on the question and selection. Topic name: None, Subject name: Microbiology
The disposable plastic syringes are best sterilised by: 
Select and explain. 
A. Formaldehyde, B. Ethylene oxide, C. Hexachlorophene, D. UV radiation
B: Ethylene oxide
Answer: B: Ethylene oxide 
Explanation: Ethylene oxide: Ethylene oxide is a colorless liquid used for gaseous sterilization. It is active against all kinds of bacteria, spores, and viruses. It kills all types of microorganisms by inhibiting proteins and nucleic acids. It is both microbicidal and sporicidal. It is a highly effective sterilizing agent because it rapidly penetrates packing materials, including plastic wraps. It is used to sterilize disposable plastic Petri dishes, sutures, syringes, heart-lung machine, respirators, and dental equipments. Ethylene oxide is highly inflammable and carcinogenic. Extensive aeration of the sterilized materials is necessary to remove residual ethylene oxide gas, which is toxic.
Parija SC. Textbook of Microbiology & Immunology. Elsevier Health Sciences; 2014. Page: 32