Help Why can't we see ultra-violet light?

  • Thread starter ecanescence-fan
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In summary, our eyes evolved to be sensitive to the range of light emitted by the sun, which is mostly visible light. Ultra-violet light is emitted in smaller amounts and is generally absorbed rather than reflected. Additionally, UV light can be harmful to our eyes, so it is beneficial for them to not be sensitive to it. Some insects, like bees, can see UV light and certain flowers reflect it, but it is not necessary for human vision.
  • #1
ecanescence-fan
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Help! Why can't we see ultra-violet light??

Homework Statement



Can someone please tell me in a nutshell why we can't see ultra-violet light??

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution

 
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  • #2
Most of the light emitted by the sun is what now for us is 'visible light'. Our eyes evolved to become sensitive for a range of light in which the sun emits the most. Ultra-violet is emitted far less by the sun than visible light, so it would not be that useful to be able to see this.
 
  • #3
The eyes adapted to light in the 'visible' range. The cones react to particular color, and the optics of the lens do not favor UV.

http://hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu/hbase/vision/rodcone.html
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cone_cell
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rod_cell

http://hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu/hbase/vision/visioncon.html#c1


The other factor is the UV is generally absorbed rather than reflected. Bees and perhaps some other insects are sensitive to UV and certain flowers do reflect low frequency UV. So as da_willem mentioned, it is more beneficial for eyes to adapt to frequencies with more intensity.

http://hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu/hbase/vision/solirrad.html#c1
http://hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu/hbase/ems3.html#c3
The sun is a strong source of ultraviolet radiation, but atmospheric absorption eliminates most of the shorter wavelengths. The eyes are quite susceptible to damage from ultraviolet radiation. Welders must wear protective eye shields because of the uv content of welding arcs can inflame the eyes. Snow-blindness is another example of uv inflamation; the snow reflects uv while most other substances absorb it strongly.
 
  • #4
"...Snow-blindness is another example of uv inflamation; the snow reflects uv while most other substances absorb it strongly..."

Huh. Now I know.
 

1. Why can't we see ultra-violet light?

Ultra-violet light has a shorter wavelength and higher energy compared to visible light. Our eyes are only able to detect wavelengths between 400-700 nanometers, which is the range of visible light. Ultra-violet light falls outside of this range, making it invisible to the human eye.

2. Can animals see ultra-violet light?

Yes, some animals such as bees, birds, and reptiles have the ability to see ultra-violet light. This is because their eyes have specialized cells called cones that are sensitive to ultra-violet light. This allows them to navigate and locate food more efficiently.

3. How do we detect ultra-violet light if we can't see it?

We can use special instruments such as cameras or spectrophotometers to detect ultra-violet light. These instruments use technology that is able to capture or measure the intensity of ultra-violet light. Additionally, some objects may fluoresce or glow under ultra-violet light, making it easier to detect.

4. Is ultra-violet light harmful to our eyes?

Prolonged exposure to ultra-violet light can be harmful to our eyes. The sun emits a significant amount of ultra-violet radiation, which can cause damage to the cells in our eyes and increase the risk of developing cataracts. This is why it is important to wear sunglasses or other protective eyewear when exposed to sunlight.

5. Can we manipulate ultra-violet light?

Yes, it is possible to manipulate ultra-violet light through various methods such as filtering, reflecting, or refracting it. Scientists and engineers use these techniques to create specialized equipment and devices that use ultra-violet light for different purposes, such as sterilization, printing, and curing materials.

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