Radiation in the region of the
electromagnetic spectrum including wavelengths
from 100 to 3900 A? . UVA covers the region from
315 to 400 A? . UVB covers the region from 280 to
315 A? .
Definition
A form
of ELECTROMAGNETIC RADIATION, shorter in
wavelength than visible light. Ultraviolet
wavelengths range between about 1 nm
and 400 nm. Ordinary glasses are not
transparent to these waves; quartz is a
much more effective material for making
lenses and prisms for use with ultraviolet.
Like light, ultraviolet radiation is produced
by electronic transitions between the outer
energy levels of atoms. However, having a
higher frequency, ultraviolet photons carry
more energy than those of light and can induce photolysis of compounds.
Hazard
Dangerous to eyes, overexposure causes
severe skin burns (sunburn).
