EFFECT OF INORGANIC CHEMICALS ON RADIORESISTANCE OF SEEDS

Abstract

Introduction. Exposure to inorganic substances can modify the sensitivity of plants to ionizing radiation when preparing seeds for sowing, as well as in the case of exposure directly in the soil due to radiation accidents and possible nuclear conflicts. Since many classic mineral fertilizers (nitrate, phosphate, and potash) are inorganic water-soluble substances and enter the soil annually, their action will directly affect the radioresistance of germinating plants. An initial assessment of the conducted studies will avoid repetitions and determine the limits of additional research on the problem. Aim. This study aimed to aggregate and systematize information on the effect of soluble inorganic substances of ionic structure on the radioresistance of plants. Methods. The information was collected, processed, and analyzed. A format similar to the salt solubility table was chosen to conceptualize the material. The main results. Using chemicals before and after irradiation can change the effect of ionizing radiation. However, other factors such as pH, solution osmotic pressure, and seed moisture may also affect radiosensitivity. All these factors can affect the total radioresistance of seeds. Halides, dihydrogen phosphates, and dithionite have a radioprotective effect. The protective effect of divalent metal sulfates depends on the concentration and their chemical interaction with cellular structures. Heavy metal nitrates negatively affect the radioresistance of seeds. Sodium and calcium ions have a protective effect due to cell dehydration. Pretreatment with potassium preparations increases its content, compensating for its loss due to radiation exposure. Heavy metal ions can act as effective radiosensitizers. Metal ions with a high proton number, such as platinum, gold, gadolinium, and hafnium, could have a potential radiosensitizing effect. They can form nanoparticles that can become a source of secondary electrons, increasing point damage. Conclusions. The action of the most active groups of chemical inorganic ionic compounds has been sufficiently studied to create a primary table structure and approaches to conceptualizing the result. The study of the effects of combinations of cations and anions and their subsequent effects requires additional attention. A more detailed study of these effects will help form strategies for the radiation protection of plants in the event of radiation accidents and nuclear incidents. As well as in understanding the role of soluble inorganic soil elements on the radioresistance of plants at the initial stages of development.