
Glossary
Erythemal action spectrum : The response of skin to ultraviolet
radiation of different wavelengths. (Click here
to look at the spectrum curve)
Infrared Radiation : The wavelengths of infrared
radiation are longer than those of visible light and range between 700
and 1,000,000 nanometers (nm) [1nm = 10-9m].
Intensity : The amount of radiation energy fell on
unit area per unit time.
Ozone layer : The layer of the atmosphere
in which the concentration of ozone is greatest. Typically, the ozone
layer lies between altitudes of 20 to 25 kilometre.
Photochemical smog : Smog produced by action of
solar radiation, especially of ultraviolet radiation, on exhausts from
vehicles and industry. Photochemical smog irritates the eyes, nose and
throat and damages plants. As smog increases, it can trigger more serious
health problems e.g. asthma, bronchitis, increased susceptibility to
respiratory infections and decreased lung function.
Radiation : The transmission of energy by
electromagnetic waves or particles.
Spectrophotometer : An instrument for measuring
the intensity of radiation as a function of wavelength.
Sun Protection Factor (SPF) :
The Sun Protection Factor gives an indication
of the effectiveness of the sunscreen lotions on protecting the skin from
sunburn. The higher the SPF, the greater the protection. For example,
a sunscreen lotion with SPF 4 means that the exposure to ultraviolet (UV)
radiation received after a given time is one-quarter that received in the
absence of any protection.
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