The action of X-rays on certain bacteria

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Abstract
X-rays (0.25-2A) kill Sarcina lutea, B. coli, and Phytomonas medicaginis var. phaseplicola, the order stated being that of increasing sensitivity and the relative sensitivities being about 0.3, 1, and 3. Irradiation impairs the nutrient agar in a manner consistent with the hypothesis of toxin production. For equal doses in [tau]-units as measured, a higher killing rate was obtained with the longer wave-lengths. The possibility that this is due to the method by which doses were measured, and not to a more potent action of the longer wave-lengths is discussed. Bacteria irradiated singly on agar survive in an exponential manner; a correction factor being introduced for lack of uniformity of the x-ray beam. Bacteria irradiated in colonies yield a survivor-curve differing from that for single bacteria. The shape and constants of the curve are consistent with a one-quantum-hit-to-kill mechanism, with the addition of effects due to the absorption and scattering of x-rays in the colony.

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