The difference between UV-Lights

Ultraviolet (UV) light disinfection is getting a lot of attention during the coronavirus pandemic. Thanks to its ability to kill pathogens like viruses and bacteria.

UV is often referred to as ultraviolet ‘light,’ but UV is a type of electromagnetic radiation with wavelengths shorter than visible light and longer than X-rays.

UV radiation falls into three categories depending on its wavelength: 

• UVA
• UVB
• UVC

They differ in their biological activity and the extent to which they can penetrate the skin. The shorter the wavelength, the more harmful the UV radiation. However, shorter wavelength UV radiation is less able to penetrate the skin.

UVC light is the type of UV radiation that targets the DNA of microorganisms, causing cell death, or making reproduction impossible. They’re certainly not the type of light bulbs to be used in the home.

 They’re mainly used in professional and industrial environments in processes such as water treatment, Disinfection, Sterilization, and food sanitation.

UVA radiation is undetectable to the naked eye. they are the longest-wavelength, lowest-energy kind of UV radiation and the kind that is least harmful.

UVB in sunlight that causes the most damage. Prolonged exposure will eventually lead to sunburn and skin cancer. Especially if you’re not using the proper SPF, or covering yourself when you’re outside for extended periods of time.

In other words, While UV-A and UV-B are the rays that hit the Earth’s surface from the sun and the reason doctors recommend we wear sunscreen.

In conclusion, Just as visible light consists of different colors that become apparent in a rainbow, the UV radiation spectrum is divided into three regions called UVA, UVB, and UVC. As sunlight passes through the atmosphere, all UVC and most UVB is absorbed by ozone, water vapor, oxygen, and carbon dioxide. UVA is not filtered as significantly by the atmosphere.

References: Radiation: Ultraviolet (UV) radiation, Does all UV-light kill viruses and bacteria, 

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