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.	HPS and CRCPD Proclaim 8-14 November 2009 as National Radiation Protection Professionals Week
.	November Newsletter
.	NRC Academic Program Nuclear Education Grants, FY2010, Now Accepting Applications
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.	November Journal
.	EPA's STAR Graduate and GRO Undergraduate Fellowship Funding Now Accepting Applications

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.	2010 HPS Midyear Topical Meeting Radiation Risk Communication to the Public 24-27 January 2010 Albuquerque, NM
.	2010 HPS Professional Development School Radiation Risk Communication: Issues and Solutions 27-29 January 2010 Albuquerque, NM

07 November 2009

Answer to Question #1484 Submitted to "Ask the Experts"

Category: Radiation Effects — Effects on Materials

The following question was answered by an expert in the appropriate field:

I would like to know how various types of radiation (such as ultraviolet, infrared, and visible light) affect the development of plants (radish, specifically)?

Sunlight, which contains a mixture of visible, infrared, and ultraviolet radiation, is required for plant photosynthesis. This is a chemical reaction catalyzed by chlorophyll (the green pigment in plant leaves) to convert carbon dioxide and water into carbohydrates and oxygen. The reaction removes waste carbon dioxide from the air, supplies oxygen, and makes carbohydrate for plant growth and for food for other species, including humans. It is required to sustain life on earth. Thus these radiations are beneficial.

S. Julian Gibbs, DDS, PhD

Answer posted on 10 December 2001. The information and material posted on this Web site is intended as general reference information only. Specific facts and circumstances may alter the concepts and applications of materials and information described herein. The information provided is not a substitute for professional advice and should not be relied upon in the absence of such professional advice specific to whatever facts and circumstances are presented in any given situation. Answers are correct at the time they are posted on the Web site. Be advised that over time, some requirements could change, new data could be made available, or Internet links could change. For answers that have been posted for several months or longer, please check the current status of the posted information prior to using the responses for specific applications.