Applications of UV
Ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy or ultraviolet-visible spectrophotometry refers to absorption spectroscopy or reflectance spectroscopy in the ultraviolet-visible spectral region. This means it uses light in the visible and adjacent ranges. Molecules containing π-electrons or non-bonding electrons (n-electrons) can absorb the energy in the form of ultraviolet or visible light to excite these electrons to higher anti-bonding molecular orbitals.
Qualitative analysis through spectrophotometric methods achieves fast and accurate results using only small sample quantities. This fast and effect instrumentation has become an essential tool in the pharmaceutical industry thanks to its adaptability and economic value. Qualitative analysis has proven highly useful in many major forms of organic compounds and helps to ensure patient health and safety.
Uses for UV
Our skin and UV
When we expose our skin to UVB, it stimulates the production of vitamin D, which our bodies need. Window glass absorbs UVB, so people need to go outside to gain the benefit. However, too much exposure to UVB can cause skin cancers, so the aim is to find the optimum amount of exposure.
Sterilisation and disinfection
UVB also helps us when we hang washing outside to dry, as some of the bacteria present in the washing are inactivated by exposure to UVB.
Fluorescence and lighting
A number of substances are able to absorb the energy in UV light and immediately convert it into visible light. This effect is called fluorescence
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