Explain the relationship between steam sterilization pressure and temperature.

In saturated steam sterilization, there is a direct and fixed relationship between pressure and temperature. As the pressure of the steam increases, the temperature also increases. This relationship is governed by the laws of thermodynamics for saturated steam. For example, at sea level atmospheric pressure, water boils at 100°C (212°F). In a steam sterilizer, increasing the pressure above atmospheric pressure allows the steam to reach higher temperatures, such as 121°C (250°F) or 132°C (270°F), which are required for effective sterilization. The sterilizer's control system uses this pressure-temperature relationship to accurately control the sterilization process. The pressure is carefully monitored and maintained to ensure that the steam reaches and remains at the desired temperature for the specified duration. It is essential to maintain this pressure-temperature relationship to ensure that the steam is saturated and provides the necessary heat and moisture for effective microbial inactivation. The absence of this direct correlation suggests the presence of non-condensable gases or superheated steam.