This chapter deals with ultra-violet (UV) radiation. UV radiation is presented as part of the light spectrum of an ordinary household fluorescent lamp. In an experiment to detect the presence of UV radiation in commercial light sources, a fluorescent effect will be demonstrated through exposure of tonic water to this type of radiation. The experiment apparatus that the students will construct will enable them to examine the degree of blockage of UV radiation by various substances and objects commonly found in daily life.
UV radiation will also be presented theoretically in the context of the environmental problem caused by exposure to this radiation.
To prepare for your lesson, you will find the following resources useful:
- Lesson Plan: This document highlights the lesson objectives for the unit. It also provides key questions which you can ask to facilitate discussion during the lesson.
- PPT slides: These slides align closely with the E2K Science unit. You may use them during the lessons as a visual aid.
- Note To Teachers: As there are discrepancies between the aim of the experiment and the experimental protocol given in Student Worksheets 2 and 3, this document propose changes in the lesson delivery that you can adopt in order to achieve lesson objectives.
- Materials Needed: This document lists the materials required for the lesson.
- Student Worksheets: These worksheets can be printed for student use.
- Possible Experimental Set-ups: This document shows photographs of possible experimental set-ups and the points to highlight for discussion in each set-up.
- Additional Student Worksheets: These worksheets are designed to scaffold student learning. Please use only if you feel it is necessary.