Ultraviolet Light (Quantum Theory/Energy)
The Quantum
Theory
E=hv: Energy=Planck’s Constant x Frequency
This is the formula to determine either the energy or the frequency of radioactive materials. E is energy, h is Planck’s Constant, which is 6.63 x 10-34 Js, and finally v pertains to the frequency of radiation. Plank was the first to theorize that atoms and molecules could emit energy only in discrete quantities. According to his theory energy is always emitted in multiples of hv. For instance energy can be emitted at 4hv or 7hv never 2.58hv. This theory is called Planck’s quantum theory or just the quantum theory. A quantum is the smallest quantity of energy that can be emitted from a radioactive substance. Using this theory the energy emitted from the sun can be measured. Scientists can determine according to the energy and frequency of radiation what will counteract the UV rays. Depending on which rays are being blocked (UVA, UVB, or UVC) different chemicals of different strengths are used. The higher the SPF of a sunscreen the more protection it is supposed to provide. However the chemicals will not change, what changes is the concentration of the chemicals. Also sunscreen only protects from UVA and UVB rays. It is hope less against any UVC rays (which the atmosphere currently shields) because of the immense energy that they emit. The energy and the frequency of the radiation have a direct relationship, so basically the higher the frequency the more energy and the lower the frequency the less energy.
