Final answer:
Non-ionizing radiation, such as UV light, causes DNA damage that leads to mutations and can inhibit microbial growth, being used for disinfection. However, it can also cause skin cancer when there is prolonged exposure. The correct answer to the question is option A) Cause cancer.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question refers to the effects of non-ionizing radiation. Non-ionizing radiation, like ultraviolet (UV) light, can cause damage to DNA by causing the formation of thymine dimers. This can lead to mutations in the DNA sequence which can be lethal to microorganisms.
Therefore, non-ionizing radiation is commonly used for disinfection purposes as it inhibits microbial growth by introducing DNA damage that the cells cannot repair. However, not all effects of non-ionizing radiation are beneficial. Prolonged exposure to UV radiation, which is a type of non-ionizing radiation, can increase the risk of skin cancer such as melanoma.
With regard to the options presented in the question:
- Non-ionizing radiation has been found to inhibit microbial growth by damaging their DNA, hence option B (Enhance microbial growth) is incorrect.
- There is no evidence suggesting non-ionizing radiation can inhibit plant growth or increase antibiotic resistance, making options C and D incorrect.
- The association between non-ionizing radiation and cancer is primarily linked to prolonged UV exposure, which can lead to skin cancer, making option A (Cause cancer) the correct answer.