Ultraviolet rays are part of solar radiation .
In order to establish the meaning of the term ultraviolet rays, it is necessary that, first of all, we determine the etymological origin of the two words that make it up:
-Rays comes from the Latin "radius", which can mean both "rod" and "ray".
-Ultraviolet, for its part, is a compound word that derives from Latin. Specifically, it was formed with the prefix «ultra-«, which means «beyond», and the noun «viola», which is equivalent to «purple flower».
What are ultraviolet rays
The lines of energy that occur at a certain point and propagate in a certain direction are called rays . According to their characteristics, it is possible to differentiate between infrared rays , X-rays , gamma rays , alpha rays and light rays , among many other types.
In this case, we will refer to ultraviolet rays . This electromagnetic radiation includes rays with a wavelength ranging from 400 nm to 15 nm . Its name (ultraviolet) is linked to the fact that the wavelength range begins behind the visible spectrum that people observe as violet .
Ultraviolet rays are used in different areas.
Its use
Like most rays, ultraviolet radiation can be used for various purposes.
Ultraviolet rays make it possible to create lighting devices that, in some contexts, even serve to trap or eliminate insects and to detect the presence of fluids (such as semen or blood ) on a surface. These rays also allow products to be sterilized since they kill viruses and bacteria.
Ultraviolet rays and health
Ultraviolet rays, which are also known as UV rays , generate chemical effects that can be harmful to health . This radiation is part of the sun's rays, something that requires us to protect ourselves from the radiation of the main star of the Solar System .
Most of the UV radiation from the sun's rays is absorbed by the atmosphere. However, due to the hole in the ozone layer , ultraviolet rays reach the Earth's surface in increasing quantities. When a person is exposed to these rays, they can suffer various skin problems, including cancer .
How to take care of the sun
Given the serious consequences that we can suffer from the action of ultraviolet rays on our body, it is necessary that we take measures in this regard. Thus, doctors advise that when you are going to be exposed to the sun for a long time, the following recommendations be carried out:
-Put on a hat to protect your head and avoid sunstroke problems.
-Put on sunglasses with the clear objective of preventing serious damage to your eyes.
-In the same way, it is important that before exposing yourself to the sun anyone applies sunscreen, which should be of the most appropriate factor both for the person's skin type and the amount of time they will be outdoors.
-It is also recommended that when spending a long time in the sun, the individual looks for a place where there is shade to be able to remain there.
-Another measure that is recommended is to keep in mind that ultraviolet rays can cause damage to the skin throughout the year, regardless of the season or whether it is a sunny or cloudy day.