Ultraviolet Radiation

Ultraviolet radiation (UV) is a form of non-ionizing radiation that is emitted by the sun and is essential for life on our planet. In humans, UV is responsible for producing suntans and vitamin D but overexposure can cause damage and sometime irreparable harm. UV radiation can also harm or kill microorganisms, plants, and animals. In this chapter, we define and describe the incidence of UV radiation and its relationship to the reductions in size of the ozone layer. Sections of this chapter overview the mechanisms of damage and repair. Specific attention is dedicated to the effect of UV on a diversity of organisms including aquatic and terrestrial plants, plankton, invertebrates, and vertebrates. This chapter concludes with a more detailed description of UV damage to the human body.