How does atmosoheric radiation affect our lives?

Question

How does it affect our lives

Answer 1

Ultraviolet light is not ionizing radiation. But, like the above posts, I'm uncertain as to what you mean by atmospheric radiation. There are several types of radiation present in the atmosphere, including visible light, ultraviolet light, and various cosmic photons. There are also naturally occurring isotopes such as tritium that are formed in the atmosphere that precipitate and are deposited locally. As to how they affect us, the visible light is obvious, as is ultraviolet. The cosmic radiation and the isotopes formed in the atmosphere are of minimal importance, they have always been there, and they always will. There is the speculation that any ionizing radiation can cause cancer, but I wouldn't loose sleep over it. You are surrounded by low levels of naturally occurring radiation.

Answer 2

Not quite sure what you mean by "Atmospheric radiation" but I'll give it a go.

All light is a form of radiation called electromagnetic radiation. Light comes through the atmosphere. We see with it. It keeps us warm. But some of the sun's rays are called ultraviolet light. This is invisible and is a slightly more energetic form of light than what we use to see with. This light is capable of ionizing atoms (knocking an electron off) or breaking apart molecules, which can give you a suntan or eventually cause skin cancer.

There are also something called "cosmic rays" that are from outer space and pass through the atmosphere. These can be very high energy electromagnetic radiation (x-rays or even higher) or high energy sub atomic particles. This type of radiation is serious stuff and can cause major damage to cells and make you far more likely to get cancer. But like I said, the atmosphere blocks most of this harmful radiation.

Lastly, atmospheric radiation could mean low energy electromagnetic radiation sometimes called infared light. This type of radiation is based on the temerature of the air. (The atmosphere actually radiates this energy). It is why the atmosphere acts as a blanket keeping this planet warm enough to support life.

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Note: The photoelectric effect as solved by Einstein shows that ultraviolet light is capable of ionization. But mostly it harms us by breaking molecular bonds (thereby damaging our cells).

Answer 3

It is so miniscule that it has no effect whatsoever. Now in space that's a different story altogether. Hope this helped you! 1st Sgt., 7th Special Forces, (Ret.) Vietnam 67-70

Answer 4

It puts a glow on your face.