When biological materials are exposed to gamma irradiation,
the atoms/molecules of the material eject electrons, producing ions
and free radicals. Free radicals are produced when a molecule is split
into two atomseach, retaining its respective electrons. They can damage
DNA in fast growing cells (bacteria, fungi, insect eggs, parasite larvae
and sprouting vegetables) causing defects in the genetic instructions.
The effects of ionizing radiation on living organisms depend on the
total dose absorbed, the rate of absorption and the environmental conditions
(temperature, atmospheric gases) during irradiation