What absorbs Ultraviolet radiation?

In summary, the conversation discusses the properties of materials that absorb ultraviolet radiation and emit visible light, as well as the need for such materials in different environments such as Earth and Mars. Some examples of materials that fit these criteria are TiO2, beryllium, and human skin.
  • #1
Alex299792458
38
3
I know that ozone on Earth absorbs ultraviolet radiation but chemical or material absorbs ultraviolet light like the kind in fluorescent light that absorbs ultraviolet light and reemits it as visible light.
 
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  • #2
Your English is confusing, but are you saying that UV is re-emitted as visible light in the atmosphere?
 
  • #3
What exactly are you looking for?
Materials that absorb UV in general? Most solid and liquid materials do, some gases do.
Materials that are fluorescent under UV light? Google will find many.
 
  • #4
I meant to say what type of material absorbs ultraviolet radiation(including name) and I tried google but i didn't find anything because all it said was ozone but if you want to build a base on mars, you need a material to absorb the ultraviolet radiation due to the lacking of ozone on mars.
 
  • #5
See above:
mfb said:
Materials that absorb UV in general? Most solid and liquid materials do, some gases do.
Simple window glass will do the job. You probably want something more stable anyway due to the pressure difference inside/outside, or much more material to shield against cosmic radiation.
 
  • #6
TiO2 absorbs UV well and it is also very resistant. Beryllium and these are other materials used.
 
  • #7
Thanks!
 
  • #8
Human skin absorbs UV pretty well. :oldeyes:
 
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FAQ: What absorbs Ultraviolet radiation?

1. What materials can absorb Ultraviolet radiation?

Many materials can absorb Ultraviolet (UV) radiation, such as glass, plastics, fabrics, and certain metals. However, the most common and effective UV absorbers are organic compounds called "UV absorbers" or "UV stabilizers," which are often added to materials during manufacturing.

2. Why is it important to know what absorbs Ultraviolet radiation?

UV radiation can be harmful to living organisms and materials. Therefore, it is important to know what materials can absorb UV radiation in order to protect ourselves and our environment. This knowledge is also crucial in industries such as healthcare, cosmetics, and electronics, where UV radiation can affect the quality and safety of products.

3. How does the absorption of Ultraviolet radiation work?

When UV radiation reaches a material, the molecules within the material absorb the energy from the UV light. This causes the electrons within the molecules to become excited, which can lead to various physical and chemical changes in the material. The absorbed energy is then dissipated as heat, preventing it from causing harm.

4. Can all types of Ultraviolet radiation be absorbed?

No, not all types of UV radiation can be absorbed by materials. UV radiation is divided into three types: UVA, UVB, and UVC. UVA has the longest wavelength and is the least harmful, so it can be easily absorbed by materials. UVB has a medium wavelength and can be partially absorbed by materials, while UVC has the shortest wavelength and is the most harmful, but can be almost entirely absorbed by Earth's atmosphere.

5. Are there natural materials that can absorb Ultraviolet radiation?

Yes, some natural materials have the ability to absorb UV radiation. For example, melanin in the human skin can absorb UV radiation to protect us from sunburns and skin cancer. Some plants also produce natural UV absorbers to protect themselves from the sun's harmful rays. However, for industrial purposes, synthetic UV absorbers are often used for their higher efficiency and stability.

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