UVA/UVB Light: Why does UVA penetrate deeper into the skin?

AI Thread Summary
UVA radiation penetrates deeper into the skin than UVB due to its longer wavelength, despite having lower energy and intensity. The relationship between energy and wavelength indicates that longer wavelengths can interact differently with skin layers. This difference in penetration depth is crucial for understanding the effects of UV radiation on skin health. The discussion encourages further exploration of the physics behind this phenomenon. Understanding these principles is essential for comprehending the implications of UV exposure on skin.
finnch
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[Mentor's Note: Thread moved from New Member Introductions]

Hello,

My name is Chris and I am trying to understand why UVA radiation, with a longer wavelength, penetrates deeper into the skin than UVB which has a shorter wavelength.

Since E=hv=hc/ λ and
c44eb3c2af933606f2bb928132d7ec21.png


then how does a lower energy and lower intensity UVA wave penetrate deeper into the skin than a UVB wave?

Pardoning the pun, I would appreciate it if someone could enlighten me :eek:)

Many thanks...
 
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Hi finnch. :welcome:

Yours is a good question, though you won't get an answer to it in this part of Physics Forums. :oldfrown:

To understand why, please refer to the response I wrote in an earlier thread here: https://www.physicsforums.com/threads/pipe-diameter-increase.819442/#post-5143656
 
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