Holes in the ozone layer, ultraviolet rays, global warming. Surely you have heard these terms, but do you know what they mean and, most importantly, the relationship between them? Well then! Ultraviolet rays are part of the set of electromagnetic waves with a length of less than 400 nm and, therefore, invisible to the naked eye.
This radiation is emitted by sunlight that reaches planet Earth, being essential for the maintenance of life. However, pollution caused by man has destroyed the ozone layer present in the atmosphere. This makes us increasingly exposed to radiation and the dangers of illness and burns.
This article will learn a little more about these dangers, how they work, what ultraviolet rays are, and what to do to protect yourself.
Concept
The set of waves emitted by the sun are called electromagnetic waves, which can have different lengths. In short, visible light for us is part of a small portion of the light spectrum, corresponding to the red to violet wavelength. This wavelength is outside the value between 380nm and 750nm, which is considered visible to human eyes.
As such, our atmosphere can filter out most of this radiation, thanks to the ozone layer. This part of the atmosphere is located between 20 and 35 km from the Earth’s surface and prevents these harmful rays from actually reaching the Earth’s surface.
Ultraviolet radiation, or UV, comprises three types of rays: UVC, UVB, and UVA. These last two are the most common and harmful to skin health.
Benefits Of Ultraviolet Rays
However, those who think that UVC rays (รังสี uvc which is the term in Thai) have no benefits are mistaken. In a measured way, they can stimulate vitamin D production, a component that is good for the skin, teeth, and bones. They are also present in fluorescent lamps, producing lights, lanterns, and party decorations. They are also used in the chemical industry.
The Importance Of Sunscreen
Eventually, you should follow up on news sites, or informational TV shows, for recommendations about sun exposure. After all, contact should be avoided at the most harmful time, between ten in the morning and four in the afternoon.
In this sense, experts also recommend the mandatory use of sunscreen, which promotes a barrier to ultraviolet rays, preventing them from penetrating and damaging the skin.
