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Question 20191
JEE Physics · Medium

Electromagnetic Waves and Wave Optics: UV Rays — Effects MCQ

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UV Rays — EffectsMediumQuestion 20191

Question

Ultraviolet radiation is harmful to humans primarily because:
  1. A
    It carries very low energy per photon
  2. B
    It can cause ionisation and break chemical bonds in DNA
    Correct
  3. C
    It is blocked by all ordinary glass
  4. D
    It travels slower than visible light

Correct answer

It can cause ionisation and break chemical bonds in DNA

Explanation

UV-B and UV-C radiation has enough energy per photon to break DNA covalent bonds, causing mutations and skin cancer. UV-A also contributes to skin damage. The ozone layer absorbs most UV-C.

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