Application
Option 3: Lesson Designed for Authenticity
Course: General Chemistry
This activity will be done during our unit on the electromagnetic spectrum. It is intended to make the students more aware of the hazards associated with UV radiation. Overexposure to UV radiation is causing an increase in the amount of skin cancer. In this activity students will research background information on UV light and its risks, test several locations for the presence of UV radiation, and examine ways to limit their exposure to UV rays.
Student hand out and sample UV beads are attached.
Title: UV Beads Lab
Purpose:
1.To test several locations for the presence of Ultra Violet light
2. To become familiar with the different types of UV light
3. To become aware of ways to limit exposure to UV radiation
Background Information:
Write 3-4 paragraphs of background information. The questions below are guidelines for things that might be included in this section. You do not have to answer all of these questions and you may include other information.
What is UV radiation?
What are the different types of UV radiation?
What are the benefits of UV radiation?
Are some types of UV radiation more hazardous than others?
What are the risks associated with over-exposure to UV radiation?
How common is skin cancer?
Are UV rays present in tanning beds?
Are tanning beds hazardous?
Why is the incidence of skin cancer increasing?
What are the different types of skin cancer?
What factors increase your risk of getting skin cancer?
What can you do to limit your exposure to UV radiation?
How do sunscreens work?
What do the SPF values on sunscreen mean?
How often should you apply sunscreen?
What are the active ingredients in sunscreen?
Is UV radiation present on cloudy days, in the shade, in the winter and in your car?
Procedure:
The UV beads change color in the presence of ultra violet light. In the absence of UV light, they are white.
- Take the UV active beads and test 8 locations for the presence of UV radiation.
- Record your results in the table below.
Location
(Be very specific in your description) / Did they change color? / Intensity
(Is the color bright or pale? Did the color change quickly or slowly)
Conclusion:
Summarize when the UV beads changed color and what types of things provide protection form UV radiation.
Useful Websites:
Resources: