Ultraviolet Solar Radiation
UV Solar Radiation
Solar
UV rays make up part of the photonic spectrum of light. The ultraviolet region ranges
from 10nm to 400nm (nanometer) and can be further divided into UV-A, UV-B, and UV-C.
UV-A rays range from 320nm to 400nm, UV-B rays range from 280nm to 320nm, and UV-C
radiation has wavelengths less than 280nm.
UV-A
is linked to sunburn, accelerated skin aging, and damage to DNA. UV-B also causes
sunburn and is related to snow blindness, skin cancer, and immune system suppression.
UV-C is extremely dangerous to plants, animals, and human. Although it is largely
absorbed by the ozone layer and does not reach the ground, it increasingly becomes
an issue as the ozone layer is getting thinner and even destroyed in certain areas
in the world due to various environmental issues.
The Ultraviolet (UV) Index
The
National Weather Service (NWS) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) developed
the UV Index to help in planning outdoor activities. It can be found on almost every
weather forecast.
The
UV index numbers developed by NWS and EPA indicating the intensity of the sun are
shown below. Exposure levels are given on a scale of 0 to 10+, with 0 indicating
minimal exposure and 10+ indicating very high and dangerous UV levels.
0 -
2
3 - 44 - 7
7 - 910+
MinimalLowModerateHighVery High
Reducing the risks of overexposure to ultraviolet rays
According
to the EPA, and other government agencies and private organizations, there are ways
to reduce the risk of short and long term damage to your skin and eyes.
Use
Osun's SunMate to alert you when the intensity
of UV rays
exceeds dangerous limits so you can apply the proper steps to protect you and your
family.
These include:
- apply sunscreen
- wear proper clothing
- wear sunglasses
- avoid midday sun
- wear a hat
- remain inside when UVI is high
