Question

Which of the following is generally used for induced mutagenesis in crop plants?

(a) X-rays

(b) UV (260 nm)

(c) Gamma rays (from cobalt 60)

(d) Alpha particles

Answer 1

Correct Option (c) Gamma rays (from cobalt 60)

Explanation:

Cobalt 60 is the synthetic radioactive isotope of cobalt. Gamma rays are produced when an unstable atomic nucleus like cobalt-60 releases energy to gain stability. Sharbati Sonora and Pusa Lerma are the two important vadeties of wheat that are produced by gamma rays treatment of Sonora-64 and Lerma Rojo-64 which are Mexican dwarf wheat varieties.