Mind map
Ultraviolet Rays
Mind map: ultraviolet rays
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Ultraviolet Rays
Description
- Ultraviolet radiation is produced by hot objects such as the sun or by the high temperature sparks produced during electric welding.
- Ultraviolet rays have less energetic photons compared to gamma rays and x-rays and a lower penetration power. Their effect on humans is therefore limited to the skin.
- Exposure to ultraviolet rays can cause a suntan (pigmentation of the skin) and sunburn. At high levels of exposure skin cancer can result and damage to the retina.
- most of the ultraviolet radiation in sunlight is absorbed by the oxygen in the ozone layer of the Earth’s atmosphere.
Uses
- Ultraviolet has positive effects on the human body as it stimulates the production of vitamin D.
- It is used in the field of medicine for phototherapy in the treatment of some skin disorders.
- Ultraviolet radiations kill microbes and are used in the sterilisation of surgical equipment.