The sun emits energy over a broad spectrum of wavelengths: visible light that you see, infrared radiation that you feel as heat, and ultraviolet (UV) radiation that you can’t see or feel. UV radiation has a shorter wavelength and higher energy than visible light. It affects human health both positively and negatively. Short exposure to UV radiation generates vitamin D, but can also lead to sunburn depending on an individual’s skin type. Fortunately for life on Earth, our atmosphere’s stratospheric ozone layer shields us from most UV radiation. What does get through the ozone layer, however, can cause the following problems, particularly for people who spend unprotected time outdoors:Skin cancer,cataracts,suppression of the immune system,premature aging of the skin etc.Since the benefits of sunlight cannot be separated from its damaging effects, it is important to understand the risks of overexposure and take simple precautions to protect yourself. |