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ultraviolet radiation

Cultural  
  1. Radiation in the part of the electromagnetic spectrum where wavelengths are just shorter than those of ordinary, visible violet light but longer than those of x-rays.


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Like infrared radiation, ultraviolet radiation can be detected with special instruments or films. Sunburn is caused by ultraviolet radiation. The ozone layer of the atmosphere of the Earth blocks most of the potentially harmful ultraviolet radiation.

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

This thinning allowed more harmful ultraviolet radiation from the sun to reach Earth's surface.

From Science Daily • Apr. 16, 2026

Young, hot stars emit intense ultraviolet radiation, which energizes nearby gas, Kewley explains.

From Science Daily • Mar. 23, 2026

The Skin Cancer Foundation says BCC most commonly occurs when extended exposure to ultraviolet radiation, from the sun or tanning beds, causes DNA damage and uncontrollable growth of basal cells.

From Salon • Sep. 2, 2025

Scientists generally believe that, as we are exposed to ultraviolet radiation, harmful molecules, and other forms of wear and tear, the DNA within our cells gradually accumulates damage.

From Science Magazine • Mar. 21, 2024

It is a bit of a chemical oddity in that at ground level it is a pollutant, while way up in the stratosphere it is beneficial, since it soaks up dangerous ultraviolet radiation.

From "A Short History of Nearly Everything" by Bill Bryson

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