Ionizing radiation consists of X-rays, gamma rays, and high-energy electron beams. Ionizing radiation passes deep into the cell, where it destroys molecular structures and introduces double-strand breaks in DNA molecules. This can cause DNA mutations to occur, or mutations may occur when the cell attempts to repair the damage. Mutations eventually lead to cell death.

Ionizing Radiation 

Nonionizing radiation is used for disinfection and uses less energy than ionizing radiation. It does not penetrate cells or packaging. For example, UV light causes thymine dimers to form between adjacent thymines within a single strand of DNA. When DNA polymerase encounters the thymine dimer, it can incorporate the wrong nucleotide into the strand. (two adenines instead of an adenine and thymine) this leads to mutations that can ultimately kill the cells

Non-Ionizing Radiation

Ionizing radiation and nonionizing radiation can be used to control microbial growth.

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We can use physical methods of microbial control to preserve our food by manipulating the physical environment to inhibit or prevent microbial growth.
Common control methods include:
- moisture control
- radiation
- filtration
- temperature control

Many of these methods kill cells by disrupting membranes, changing their permeability, or denaturing proteins.

Physical Ways to Control Microbial Growth

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Microbiology covers the scope and sequence requirements for a single-semester microbiology course for non-majors. The book presents the core concepts of microbiology with a focus on applications for careers in allied health. The pedagogical features of the text make the material interesting and accessible while maintaining the career-application focus and scientific rigor inherent in the subject matter. Microbiology’s art program enhances students’ understanding of concepts through clear and effective illustrations, diagrams, and photographs.

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Dehydration is used to preserve foods like jerky or seaweed. It works by stripping the cell of water, preventing it from carrying out its metobolic processes. Drying controls microbial growth, however it does not kill all organisms or endospores, which can start to regrow when the water content is restored.

Desiccation

Radiation

Exposing microbes to either extreme heat or extreme cold is a very effective method of microbial control. Temperature control methods include 
- Sterilization
- Pasteurization
- Refrigeration
- Freezing

Temperature Control

Filtration involves physically separating microbes from samples. Air is commonly filtered through high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters that can be found in vacuum cleaners, air-conditioning systems, and air purifiers.

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