Which method does not achieve its effect through oxidation?

Moist heat, which includes methods such as boiling, pasteurization, and autoclaving, primarily achieves its effect through denaturation of proteins and disruption of cellular structures, rather than through oxidation. This process involves the use of steam or hot water, which provides an effective means of sterilization or disinfection by increasing the temperature of microorganisms to a point where they can no longer survive or reproduce.

In contrast, dry heat sterilization relies on oxidation, as does the mechanism of many chemical disinfectants, which often disrupt cellular functions through reactive oxygen species or through oxidative damage to biomolecules. Radiation can also affect microorganisms through oxidative damage, particularly with certain types of radiation like UV light, which can induce the formation of free radicals.

Thus, moist heat stands out as a method that primarily operates via thermal energy and moisture content, making it effective without relying on oxidation as its primary mechanism of action.