Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is
light (i.e.,
electromagnetic radiation) of a wavelength shorter than that of visible light, but longer than that of soft
X-rays. The name means "beyond violet" (from
Latin ultra, "beyond"), violet being the
color of visible light of shortest wavelength. UV itself can be subdivided into
near UV (200-380 nm wavelength) and
extreme or
vacuum UV (10-200 nm).
Ultraviolet light is the cause of [skin cancer]?s such as melanoma. The radiation ionises DNA molecules in skin cells, causing mutations which can result in cancerous growths. As a defence to this the body tan?s when exposed to moderate (depending on [skin type]?) levels of radiation by releasing the brown pigment melanin?. This helps to block UV and prevent damage to the vulnerable skin tissues deeper down.
Uses
[Fluorescent lamp]
?s work by producing UV light by the
stimulated emission of low-pressure
mercury gas. A phosphorescent
? coating on the tubes absorbs the UV and turns it in to
visible light.
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