Biological Effects of Radiation

Published in 1936, this comprehensive volume offers a seminal survey of the biological effects of radiation. It represents a collaborative effort spearheaded by a National Research Council committee, bringing together leading experts in physics, photochemistry, zoology, and botany. This book meticulously examines the mechanisms and measurement of various types of radiation, including X-rays, radium, visible light, and ultraviolet radiation, alongside their impacts on living organisms and biological materials. This work explores fundamental interactions between radiation and matter, delving into photochemical reactions and the effects of different wavelengths on diverse organisms from bacteria to plants and animals. The book includes detailed discussions of the statistical treatment of irradiation experiments, the physiological effects of radiation on various systems, and the impact on vital substances such as enzymes, vitamins, and hormones. This pioneering text provides a foundational understanding of the field of radiation biology as it stood in the mid-1930s, offering valuable historical context and insights into early research methods and findings. Readers interested in the history of science, radiation biology, or the interdisciplinary study of physics and biology will find this a significant and historically important resource.