Ultraviolet index: Difference between revisions
CSV import |
CSV import Tags: mobile edit mobile web edit |
||
| Line 47: | Line 47: | ||
[[Category:Ultraviolet radiation]] | [[Category:Ultraviolet radiation]] | ||
[[Category:Public health]] | [[Category:Public health]] | ||
<gallery> | |||
File:GOME.uviecclimyear_lr.gif | |||
File:UV_Index_NYC.png | |||
</gallery> | |||
Latest revision as of 02:05, 17 February 2025
Measure of the strength of sunburn-producing ultraviolet radiation at a particular place and time
The ultraviolet index (UVI) is an international standard measurement of the strength of ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the Sun at a particular place and time. It is primarily used to help people protect themselves from the harmful effects of UV radiation, which can cause sunburn, skin cancer, and other health issues.
History[edit]
The concept of the UV index was developed in the early 1990s by Canadian scientists as a way to inform the public about the risks of UV exposure. It was later adopted by the World Health Organization (WHO), the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), and the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) as a global standard.
Measurement[edit]
The UV index is calculated based on several factors, including the angle of the sun, the amount of ozone in the atmosphere, and the presence of clouds. It is expressed as a number on a scale, typically ranging from 0 to 11+, where higher values indicate a greater risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure.
Scale[edit]
The UV index scale is divided into categories that indicate the level of risk:
- 0-2: Low
- 3-5: Moderate
- 6-7: High
- 8-10: Very High
- 11+: Extreme
Health Effects[edit]
Exposure to UV radiation can lead to various health effects, including:
- Sunburn
- Skin cancer, including melanoma
- Cataracts and other eye damage
- Premature aging of the skin
Protection[edit]
To protect against UV radiation, it is recommended to:
- Wear protective clothing, such as hats and long sleeves
- Use sunscreen with a high sun protection factor (SPF)
- Seek shade during peak sun hours
- Wear sunglasses that block UV rays
Related pages[edit]
Gallery[edit]
References[edit]
UV Index(link). World Health Organization.
Accessed October 10, 2023.
Understanding the UV Index(link). United States Environmental Protection Agency.
Accessed October 10, 2023.
