Quantitative Aspects of the Indirect Action of X-Radiation at Various Concentrations on E. coli

Abstract

THE lethal effects of irradiations with X-rays on E. coli have been studied. Our observations were made on bacteria dried, or suspended either in 2 per cent broth or saline solution, at bacterial densities of 10⁻¹ to 10⁻¹⁰ gm./ml. Some experiments were also made by adding 10⁻³ M cysteine to the solutions. An X-ray tube was used operating at 110 kV., and 4 m.amp., at a dose-rate of 36 r./min., without any additional filter.