Written by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 examโขWritten by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated September 2025
Definition
Ultraviolet radiation is a type of electromagnetic radiation that has shorter wavelengths than visible light but longer wavelengths than X-rays. It's invisible to the human eye and can cause skin damage, including sunburn and skin cancer.
Related terms
UVA Rays: These are long-wave ultraviolet A rays that penetrate deep into the dermis, the skin's thickest layer. They can cause premature aging and wrinkling.
UVB Rays: These are short-wave ultraviolet B rays that burn the superficial layers of your skin. They play a key role in developing skin cancer.