Final answer:
Radiation-induced mutations from UV light, particularly the formation of thymine dimers, are utilized in UV decontamination. This process damages microbial DNA, leading to lethal mutations that can kill or inactivate the organisms, which is effective in various sterilization applications.
Step-by-step explanation:
This radiation-induced mutation refers to the changes in DNA that occur when it is exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light, forming lesions such as thymine dimers. These dimers distort the DNA structure and, if not repaired, can lead to errors when the DNA is replicated. This property is harnessed in UV decontamination methods to disinfect water and surfaces by damaging the DNA of microorganisms, effectively killing or inactivating them. UV decontamination works because the damaged DNA often results in lethal mutations for the microbes, as the DNA polymerase may insert incorrect nucleotides across from the dimer, hindering normal cellular functions and replication.
Nonionizing radiation, such as UV light, is effective for decontamination since it induces these specific kinds of mutations without penetrating cells or packaging materials. This makes UV light useful for surface disinfection in hospitals, laboratories, and, on a smaller scale, for consumer products like water purification systems used in homes or by campers. The effectiveness of UV light at a wavelength of 260 nm in causing thymine dimers is the key to its utility in controlling microbial growth.