WHY UV RADIATION IS HIGHER IN SUMMER
WHY UV RADIATION IS HIGHER IN SUMMER
The sun's ultraviolet (UV) radiation is a type of electromagnetic radiation that can cause sunburn, skin cancer, and other health problems. UV radiation is strongest during the summer months because the sun is higher in the sky and its rays are more direct.
How Does the Sun's Position Affect UV Radiation?
The Earth's axis is tilted, so the amount of sunlight that reaches a particular location varies throughout the year. During the summer months, the Northern Hemisphere is tilted towards the sun, which means that the sun is higher in the sky and its rays are more direct. This results in higher levels of UV radiation.
Why is UV Radiation More Intense at Midday?
In addition to the sun's position, the time of day also affects UV radiation levels. UV radiation is typically strongest around midday, when the sun is highest in the sky. This is because the sun's rays have to travel through less of the Earth's atmosphere to reach the ground, so they are less likely to be absorbed or scattered.
Other Factors Affecting UV Radiation Levels
In addition to the sun's position and the time of day, several other factors can affect UV radiation levels, including:
Altitude: UV radiation levels increase with altitude because there is less atmosphere to absorb or scatter the sun's rays.
Ozone Layer: The ozone layer is a region of the Earth's atmosphere that absorbs UV radiation. The thickness of the ozone layer varies throughout the year and from place to place. When the ozone layer is thinner, more UV radiation reaches the ground.
Clouds: Clouds can block UV radiation, but they can also reflect it, increasing UV radiation levels on the ground.
Snow and Ice: Snow and ice can reflect UV radiation, increasing UV radiation levels in areas with snow or ice cover.
How to Protect Yourself from UV Radiation
There are several things you can do to protect yourself from UV radiation, including:
- Seek shade: Stay in the shade as much as possible, especially during the peak hours of UV radiation (10 am to 4 pm).
- Wear protective clothing: Wear clothing that covers your skin, such as long-sleeved shirts, pants, and a hat.
- Use sunscreen: Apply sunscreen to all exposed skin, even on cloudy days.
- Wear sunglasses: Sunglasses can protect your eyes from UV radiation.
- Get a tan safely: Avoid getting sunburned. If you do get sunburned, treat it immediately with cool compresses and aloe vera gel.
Conclusion
UV radiation is a serious health hazard, but there are several things you can do to protect yourself. By following the tips above, you can reduce your risk of sunburn, skin cancer, and other health problems.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Why is UV radiation higher in summer?
UV radiation is higher in summer because the sun is higher in the sky and its rays are more direct.
- What time of day is UV radiation strongest?
UV radiation is typically strongest around midday, when the sun is highest in the sky.
- What are some other factors that can affect UV radiation levels?
Other factors that can affect UV radiation levels include altitude, the ozone layer, clouds, snow and ice.
- How can I protect myself from UV radiation?
You can protect yourself from UV radiation by seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, using sunscreen, wearing sunglasses, and getting a tan safely.
- What are the health risks of UV radiation?
UV radiation can cause sunburn, skin cancer, and other health problems.
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