The Effects of the Electromagnetic Spectrum
You probably know that high-energy radiation can be very dangerous. It can cause severe burns right away, or lead to cancer later on. For example, ultraviolet light is a relatively high energy form of electromagnetic radiation. It has the ability to penetrate your skin and damage the cells in your body. In large amounts, ultraviolet radiation can cause sunburns and even skin cancer. This is why you should always wear protective clothing, such as a T-shirt and a hat, and apply plenty of sunscreen when you go outside on a sunny day.
It should not surprise you that since X-rays and gamma rays are the highest forms of electromagnetic radiation, they are also the most dangerous. X-rays can pass through all parts of your body except your bones. This allows doctors in hospitals to see the bones inside your body. X-rays also help dentists to look through your cheeks and gums to see your teeth. People being X-rayed wear lead aprons to protect most of the body form the dangerous effects of this radiation. The lead prevents X-ray waves from passing through you. Technicians who operate X-ray machines must leave the room when the machine is on.
Gamma rays are even more powerful. They can easily pass through a lead apron or even a one-metre-thick concrete wall. Gamma rays are produced by radioactive materials, such as uranium.
On the other end of the spectrum, radio, infrared, and visible light are all low-energy forms of electromagnetic radiation. They do not have the ability to penetrate the skin and, in moderate amounts, are not as dangerous. However, being exposed to large amounts of any kind of energy can be potentially harmful. For example, the infrared or heat radiation from a hot element on a stove will burn you if you touch it.
We are fortunate that Earth’s atmosphere acts as a shield that protects us by blocking out most of the higher energy forms of the electromagnetic spectrum, including gamma rays, X-rays, and some ultraviolet radiation. Without this shield, most life forms we know (including humans) could not exist on Earth.
Unfortunately, the pollution we put into our atmosphere is slowly destroying its ability to block harmful forms of electromagnetic radiation. There has been much discussion by world leaders and concerned organizations and individuals about the effects of pollution, what to do about it, and when to do it. What is your opinion? Write it in the comment box below. Put your (first name) in brackets at the end.