What is the wavelength range of ultraviolet light?

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Ultraviolet (UV) light is a region of the electromagnetic spectrum that lies between visible light and X-rays. The commonly accepted wavelength range for ultraviolet light is from about 10 nanometers to 400 nanometers. This range is divided into several subcategories:

  1. UVA (320 to 400 nm) - This part of the UV spectrum is less energetic and is often associated with skin aging and tanning.
  1. UVB (280 to 320 nm) - This part is more energetic and is primarily responsible for sunburn and has implications for skin cancer risk.

  2. UVC (100 to 280 nm) - This segment contains the most energetic UV light and is primarily absorbed by the Earth's atmosphere, preventing it from reaching the surface.

The correct answer encompasses the broadest definition of ultraviolet light, capturing both the energetic wavelengths typically associated with UV radiation and those close to the visible spectrum's beginning.

The other ranges either improperly encompass visible light or do not include the complete range of ultraviolet light effectively. Hence, the wavelength range of ultraviolet light is best represented by the range provided as the correct answer.

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