Which piece of equipment is commonly used for ultrasonic cleaning?

The choice of an ultrasonic cleaner as the correct answer is based on its specific function and mechanism in the cleaning process. An ultrasonic cleaner utilizes high-frequency sound waves to create millions of tiny bubbles in a cleaning solution. This cavitation process effectively removes contaminants, dirt, and debris from the surfaces of instruments, making it particularly useful for cleaning delicate items or complex geometries that are difficult to clean through manual means or other cleaning devices.

While other equipment like autoclaves and sterilizers are essential in the sterilization process, they serve different purposes. Autoclaves are designed to use steam under pressure to sterilize instruments, not to clean them. Similarly, sterilizers focus on eliminating all forms of microbial life, which occurs after cleaning, rather than the cleaning step itself. Decontaminators may refer to a variety of devices or processes aimed at reducing pathogens but typically do not utilize ultrasonic technology for cleaning.

In summary, the ultrasonic cleaner’s specific role in utilizing sound waves for effective cleaning makes it the appropriate selection for this question.