Ultraviolet Rays in Modern World

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Ultraviolet Rays in Modern World

This lesson aligns with NGSS PS4.C

Introduction

Ultraviolet (UV) rays have shorter wavelength radiations but are invisible to the human eye. However, some insects can see them like bees. The natural source of ultraviolet rays is the sun, and contributes around 10% of the total light from it. Apart from its natural occurrence, it has been used in medical sciences for sterilization for several years. In this article, you will study ultraviolet rays, their types, properties, and their application in today's modern World.

What are Ultraviolet Rays?

Ultraviolet (UV) rays are electromagnetic radiations with shorter wavelengths than visible light. UV wavelength is between 10 nm and 400 nm, which is longer than the X-rays and shorter than the visible light.

Types Of Ultraviolet Rays

Based on their wavelength, they are classified into three main types.

UVA (ultraviolet A):

UVA rays have longer wavelengths (320-400 nm) and are often associated with skin aging. It can go into the deeper layers of the skin. UVA rays are responsible for tanning and are often used in applications such as forensic analysis and help in currency detection.

UVB (Ultraviolet B):

Sunburn is known to be made by UVB—wavelengths between 280 and 320 nm. This type of UV plays a crucial role in Vitamin D synthesis, while prolonged exposure to this radiation will cause skin cancer.

UVC (Ultraviolet C):

UVC rays have the shortest wavelength, ranging from 100 to 280 nm. It is the most harmful kind of UV radiation. Most UVC rays are absorbed by the Earth's environment and infrequently reach the surface. Because this particular spectrum of UV light may degrade germs' DNA and RNA, it is employed in germicidal lamps and other sterilizing equipment.

UV radiation has many applications, like tanning, disinfection, and scientific study. Prolonged exposure to UV radiation, extremely UVB, can harm human health and cause skin damage, though—an expanded danger of skin cancer. Protecting the skin from limited UV rays is essential for retaining good health.

Ultra Violet Radiation Properties

Penetration

As UV lights have shorter wavelengths and more extended frequencies, they have a remarkable ability to penetrate—emissions from the sun and then absorption to the earth's surface lead to exposure to UV rays. UVB rays affect the skin's surface layers; UVA rays reach the skin's deeper coatings. The Earth's environment absorbs the UVC.

Energy

UV light has a higher energy than visible light, which makes it potentially harmful to living organisms, especially intracellular DNA.

Biological effects

UV rays can damage the DNA of the skin cells. They can cause sunburn to the skin. It also causes the skin and raises the danger of expanding skin cancer.

Ozone Absorption

The Earth's ozone layer absorbs a significant portion of UVB, and most UVC rays protect the Earth's surface from overexposure.

Production of Vitamin D

When skin is exposed to sunlight, UVB rays help to synthesize vitamin D. For the health of the bones and other bodily parts, it is vital.

Role Of Ultraviolet Rays In Modern World

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation plays several essential roles in modern society.

Sterilization And Disinfectant

In medical and scientific fields, Ultraviolet rays are an essential element for sterilization and disinfection. UVC light is used to kill bacteria and viruses. They are making it valuable for air purification and water filtration systems. Especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, UV light use at hospitals was increased to disinfect surfaces and air from the deadly virus.

UV or Phototherapy

UVA and UVB are used to treat various health-related problems like skin disease. It works particularly well for treating skin conditions, including vitiligo, atopic dermatitis, and psoriasis. UV radiation is a valuable tool in healthcare since it can lower inflammation and decrease immune system responses.

Sunscreen Production The harmful effects of UV radiation on human skin have led to the production of sunscreen products. Thus, it may result in applying the appropriate sunscreen and protective apparel, lowering the chance of developing skin cancer and other UV-related illnesses.

Semiconductor industry:

UV lithography is used in producing semiconductors, which enables the miniaturization of electronic components in modern devices.

This UV lithography is a high-precision technique used in the production of integrated circuits (ICs), microelectromechanical systems (MEMS), and microelectronic devices as well

Forensics:

UV light is used in forensics to detect and analyze proof such as blood colors, body fluids and counterfeit bills.

Art and Conservation:

In the art world, ultraviolet light is used to detect fakes, study how paintings age, and certify historical documents.

Summary

Ultraviolet or UV rays are divided into three classes based on different wavelengths. They are UVA, UVB, UVC.
Ultraviolet is electromagnetic radiation that has likely advantages and damages is ultraviolet (UV) radiation.
Ultraviolet light has a vast span of applications in different domains, like technology, healthcare, environmental monitoring, and art. Therefore, it is becoming an essential part of current life.

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