ultraviolettialue

The ultraviolet (UV) region of the electromagnetic spectrum lies between visible light and X-rays. It encompasses wavelengths ranging from approximately 10 nanometers to 400 nanometers. UV radiation is invisible to the human eye and carries more energy than visible light. The sun is the primary natural source of UV radiation, but it is also produced by artificial sources such as tanning beds, black lights, and germicidal lamps.

UV radiation is typically divided into three bands: UVA, UVB, and UVC. UVA rays have the longest wavelengths and are responsible for skin aging and contribute to skin cancer. UVB rays have shorter wavelengths and are the primary cause of sunburn and also play a significant role in skin cancer development. UVC rays are the shortest and most energetic, but they are almost entirely absorbed by the Earth's ozone layer, meaning very little UVC reaches the surface.

UV radiation has various applications. In medicine, it is used for treating certain skin conditions and in phototherapy. Germicidal UV lamps, emitting UVC, are used for sterilizing medical equipment and disinfecting water and air by damaging the DNA of microorganisms. In industry, UV light is used in curing processes for inks, coatings, and adhesives. However, excessive exposure to UV radiation, particularly UVA and UVB, can be harmful to human health, leading to sunburn, premature aging of the skin, cataracts, and an increased risk of skin cancer.