Consider the following statements: UV radiation is the portion of the ...
- UV radiation is the portion of the Electromagnetic spectrum between X-rays and visible light.
- UV radiations are normally used to kill microorganisms.
- Particularly, UV-C, also known as Ultraviolet germicidal irradiation (UVGI) is a disinfection method that uses short-wavelength ultraviolet light to kill or inactivate microorganisms by destroying their nucleic acids and disrupting their DNA, leaving them unable to perform vital cellular functions and stops their replication.
- UVGI is used in a variety of applications, such as food, air, and water disinfection.
Consider the following statements: UV radiation is the portion of the ...
UV radiation is the portion of the electromagnetic spectrum between X-rays and visible light. It is divided into three categories: UVA, UVB, and UVC. UVA has the longest wavelength and is the least harmful, while UVC has the shortest wavelength and is the most harmful.
UV radiation is known to have both beneficial and harmful effects on living organisms. It can cause damage to DNA, leading to mutations and potential skin cancer. However, it also has a germicidal effect, which means it can kill microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi.
Let's analyze each statement separately to determine their correctness:
Statement 1: UV radiation is the portion of the electromagnetic spectrum between X-rays and visible light.
This statement is correct. The electromagnetic spectrum is a range of different types of electromagnetic radiation, including radio waves, microwaves, infrared radiation, visible light, UV radiation, X-rays, and gamma rays. UV radiation falls between X-rays and visible light in terms of wavelength.
Statement 2: UV radiations are normally used to kill microorganisms.
This statement is also correct. UV radiation has a germicidal effect, which means it can kill or inactivate microorganisms. It is commonly used for disinfection purposes in water treatment plants, air purifiers, and medical facilities. UV radiation damages the DNA of microorganisms, preventing them from reproducing and causing infections.
Conclusion:
Both statements are correct. UV radiation is indeed the portion of the electromagnetic spectrum between X-rays and visible light, and it is commonly used to kill microorganisms. UV radiation has both harmful and beneficial effects on living organisms. While it can cause damage to DNA and potentially lead to skin cancer, it also has a germicidal effect that can be harnessed for disinfection purposes.
To make sure you are not studying endlessly, EduRev has designed UPSC study material, with Structured Courses, Videos, & Test Series. Plus get personalized analysis, doubt solving and improvement plans to achieve a great score in UPSC.