In this master's thesis, we investigated the physiological and biochemical effects of zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles on arugula plants (Eruca vesicaria subsp. sativa), while also examining the influence of UV radiation as an additional factor. The aim of the study was to contribute to a better understanding of the effects of different nanoparticle concentrations and the effects of interactions between nanoparticles and UV radiation on the physiological, biochemical, morphological, and optical characteristics of plants. The experiment was conducted outdoors, where plants were treated with three different concentrations of ZnO nanoparticles (0, 20, and 500 mg/L). The plants were exposed to two different levels of UV radiation: under a UV-permeable and a UV-impermeable filter. The results of the study showed that the interaction between nanoparticles and UV radiation had a statistically significant effect on chlorophyll a and b concentrations. Despite the increased chlorophyll levels, no changes were observed in plant biomass or their photochemical efficiency. An increase in stomatal conductance was recorded in the treatment with a lower nanoparticle concentration and reduced UV radiation. Although no statistically significant differences were detected in the concentrations of UV-absorbing compounds, the application of nanoparticles affected reflectance in the UV-B and UV-A spectrum, as well as transmittance in the red and NIR regions of the color spectrum. The study demonstrated that complex interactions between nanoparticles and UV radiation can positively influence the biochemical and physiological responses of arugula.
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