Do microwaves reach Earth's surface and which type of solar radiation is harmful to life on Earth?
Yes, microwaves do reach Earth's surface. They are a type of electromagnetic radiation with wavelengths ranging from 1 millimeter to 1 meter. Microwaves are used in a variety of applications, including radar, microwave ovens, and cellular telephones.
The type of solar radiation that is most harmful to life on Earth is ultraviolet (UV) radiation. UV radiation has wavelengths ranging from 100 nanometers to 400 nanometers. It can damage DNA and cause sunburn, skin cancer, and cataracts.
The Earth's atmosphere absorbs most UV radiation, but some of it does reach the surface. The amount of UV radiation that reaches the surface varies depending on the time of day, the season, and the latitude.
There are a number of things that people can do to protect themselves from UV radiation, including:
- Seeking shade during the middle of the day
- Wearing protective clothing, such as a hat and sunglasses
- Using sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher
Here is a table summarizing the different types of solar radiation and their effects on life on Earth:
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