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ultraviolet rays
electromagnetic radiation beyond the violet end of the visible spectrum. These rays are produced by the sun but are mostly absorbed by particles of dust and smoke in the earth's atmosphere; they
can also be produced by so-called sun lamps. They are not visible to humans, and can produce sunburn or affect skin pigmentation to cause tanning. When they strike the skin surface they transform provitamin D, secreted by the glands of the skin, into vitamin D, which is then absorbed into the body. Because ultraviolet rays can kill bacteria and other microorganisms, they are sometimes used as a method of sterilization.

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