Autoclaving destroys living cells as well as what other bacterial stage that could cause contamination?

Endospores

Explanation:

Autoclaving is a sterilization method that involves the use of high temperature and pressure. In medical application, it is used for the sterilization of medical equipment and also used for vulcanizing rubber and curing coatings in the chemical industry.

Autoclaving process destroys living cells as well as bacterial endospores. Endospores are tough non reproductive structures produced by some bacteria. They have the ability to be dormant, hence can enable bacteria to survive environmental stress.