Quantum Mech.: Photons and Tanning Bed Safety

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The discussion revolves around the safety of tanning bed exposure based on the energy and wavelength of ultraviolet (UV) light produced. The photon energy from the tanning bed is between 3.8 eV and 3.9 eV, corresponding to wavelengths of approximately 325 nm to 310 nm, which are above the tissue damage threshold of 300 nm. The safety of this exposure is questioned, with options indicating insufficient information to determine safety. Additionally, there is confusion regarding the calculation of the number of photons exposed to the skin when receiving 5 mJ of energy, with attempts to convert photon energy from eV to joules. The participant is struggling with the calculations and seeks clarification on the relationship between energy, number of photons, and total energy received.
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Homework Statement



Summer has arrived and you decide to go to the tanning bed. After arriving, you recall from physics class that the threshold for tissue damage from ultraviolet light corresponds to a wavelength of 300nm. You decide to inquire about the limits of exposure. You're informed that the photon energy produced by the tanning bed is between 3.8 eV and 3.9 eV.
A) What is the corresponding wavelength of the UV light?
a. 9.2 nm, 9.5 nm b. 325 nm, 315 nm c. 300 nm, 310 nm
B) Is this safe?
a. no b. yes c. not enough information
C) How many total photons is your skin exposed to if it receives just 5 mJ (milli-Joules) of total energy corresponding to photon at 3.9 eV?
a. 8 x 10^15 b. 4 x 10^15 c. 10 x 10^15


Homework Equations



?

The Attempt at a Solution



a) choice B
b) choice B
c) not sure how to solve this one. Are they related by de Boglie?
 
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energy of 1 photon is 3.9 eV
convert it into joules

now total energy received = (no. of photons)(energy of each photon)
 
cupid.callin said:
energy of 1 photon is 3.9 eV
convert it into joules

now total energy received = (no. of photons)(energy of each photon)

When I do that I get:
3.9eV x (1.6 x 10-19 6.24 x 10-19

Then multiplying that no. by 5x10-3 doesn't give me the correct answer. What am I doing wrong?
 
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