Experiment to Examine the Value of Sunscreen in Lowering the Intensity of the Sun's UV Rays

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Concerns have recently been raised about the level of protection that sunscreens provide against the UV rays. The purpose of this experiment is to examine the value of sunscreen in lowering the intensity of the sun’s UV rays. The instructor purchased different brands of sunscreen lotions: name brands and generic brands. Based upon the price, the class expected better sun protection from the more expensive sunscreen lotion. The group visited several places to collect data, such as Hilton Head Beach and Morehouse College campus. At Hilton Head Beach, the researchers received tons of literature. The group even interviewed a young lady about the sun lotion she uses. Researchers concluded that more expensive is better for the skin and not for sun block protection.

Introduction

The light released by the sun consists of three frequency bands of radiation: infrared, visible and ultraviolet. Out of the three frequency bands, the ultraviolet light is damaging to most humans. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation divided into three categories: UVA, UVB, and UVC. UVA radiation passes through the skin without burning the surface layers. These rays can penetrate to a depth of 0.04 inches and causes damage to cell membranes and the immune system. UVA radiation has been linked to skin cancer, early aging and wrinkling of the skin. UVB radiation is responsible for the painful red burn people get after a long period of exposure to the sun. UVB rays also cause skin cancer and damage to the cornea and lens of the eye. The third category, UVC radiation, is generally absorbed by the Earth’s atmosphere and is not considered harmful.

The benefit of doing this experiment is to learn which sunscreen best protect human skin from harmful UV ra...

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... Boat 395.184(2) 3.95184E-07 7.591400462*1014 5.03309851*10-19 BLS

Topic Sun 382.56925(4) 3.82569E-07 7.841717545*1014 5.19905873*10-19 TS

Blank 379.5617143(7) 3.79561714E-07 7.903847066*1014 5.2402506*10-19 None

80 minutes

Names Averages Wavelengths Frequency Emission Line Symbol

Ocean Potion 394.9475(2) 3.949475E-07 7.595946297*1014 5.03611239*10-19 OL

Banana Boat Spray No Peaks BS

Aveeno 395.0265(2) 3.95027E-07 7.594427209*1014 5.03510524*10-19 AL

Coppertone 394.9475(2) 3.949475E-07 7.595946297*1014 5.03611239*10-19 CL

Neutrogena 385.4216(5) 3.85422E-07 7.783684153*1014 5.16058259*10-19 NL

Coppertone Sport No Peaks CSS

Banana Boat 395.0265(2) 3.95027E-07 7.594427209*1014 5.03510524*10-19 BLS

Topic Sun 382.56925(4) 3.82569E-07 7.841717545*1014 5.19905873*10-19 TS

Blank 379.5617143(7) 3.795617E-07 7.903847066*1014 5.2402506*10-19 None

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