Question

Why is the inoculating loop flamed before streaking a new sections of the medium?

Answer 1

The  inoculating loop is used as a tool to inoculate microbes on plates. So it is necessary to flame the inoculating loop to destroy any kind of microorganisms that may contaminate ou interfer the culture medium. The fire, together with ethanol, helps to sterilize the loop, allowing it to inoculate a pure culture.