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Multiple Choice
Which statement best explains why a person can become sunburned by spending too much time at the beach?
A
Visible light from the sun increases the temperature of the skin, causing sunburn.
B
Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from sunlight damages skin cells, leading to sunburn.
C
Oxygen in the air reacts with skin pigments to produce sunburn.
D
Infrared radiation from the sun causes dehydration, resulting in sunburn.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of sunburn: Sunburn is caused by damage to the skin cells due to exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. UV radiation is a type of electromagnetic radiation that is not visible to the human eye but has enough energy to harm biological tissues.
Eliminate incorrect options: Visible light does not cause sunburn because it lacks the energy to damage skin cells. Infrared radiation primarily causes heat and dehydration but does not directly lead to sunburn. Oxygen in the air does not react with skin pigments to produce sunburn; this is not a scientifically supported mechanism.
Focus on the correct explanation: UV radiation penetrates the skin and damages the DNA in skin cells. This damage can lead to inflammation, redness, and peeling, which are characteristic symptoms of sunburn.
Relate UV radiation to biological effects: UV radiation can cause mutations in the DNA of skin cells, which is why prolonged exposure increases the risk of skin cancer. This highlights the importance of protecting the skin from UV radiation.
Conclude with prevention strategies: To avoid sunburn, individuals should use sunscreen with a high SPF, wear protective clothing, and limit exposure to direct sunlight, especially during peak UV radiation hours.