Operation Crossroads. Residual Effects of Atomic Radiation in Soils on Seed Germination.

摘要

Geneticists are convinced that exposure to X-rays and similar radiations greatly speed up the appearance of mutations. It was desirable to define the residual effects of atomic radiation on soil. Thirty-six samples of three soils, namely Caribou loam form Maine, Decatur clay loam from Georgia, and Houston clay from Texas were sent to Joint Task Force ONE and were placed on ships at varying distances from the target. After exposure on 1 July 1946, all but three samples were returned for examination. The residual radiation in dry soil which had been directly exposed to the atomic bomb ionizing radiation within 650 to 1800 yards is reduced to low levels within a period of two weeks after exposure. Plants of tomato and Sudan grass planted in these irradiated soils grew normally to maturity. No significant differences in seed germination were obtained. (Author).