Comparing Sunscreens
Recommended for grades 6–12.
Introduction
Sunscreens are available in many different types and with many different levels of protection. The most common measure of protection from UVB radiation is the SPF factor. SPF, or sun protection factor, describes the increased amount of time you can be in the sun before your skin starts to burn. For example, a sunscreen labeled SPF 8 means that you can be out in the sun eight times longer before burning than you would without using any protection. Products range from SPF 0 to SPF 50 or higher. But is SPF 50 really twice as protective as SPF 25? In this experiment, you and your classmates will search for answers to questions such as this.
The ultraviolet band is broken into three types referred to as UVA, UVB, and UVC. The most harmful of these three, UVC radiation, is absorbed by the atmosphere and does not reach the Earth’s surface. UVA radiation is deep-penetrating and causes tanning, wrinkles, and some forms of skin cancer. UVB radiation is also responsible for many skin problems such as sunburns and several forms of skin cancer.
Objectives
In the Preliminary Activity, you will gain experience using a UVB Sensor and learn UV intensity measuring technique as you determine the amount of UVB radiation passing through plastic wrap and through plastic wrap coated with a thin layer of sunscreen.
After completing the Preliminary Activity, you will first use reference sources to find out more about ultraviolet radiation and sunscreens before you choose and investigate a researchable question.
Sensors and Equipment
This investigation requires each of the following Vernier sensors and equipment (unless otherwise noted):
Additional Requirements
You may also need an interface and software for data collection. What do I need for data collection?
Download Experiment Preview
The student-version preview includes:
- Step-by-step instructions for the Preliminary Activity
- List of materials and equipment
Note: The experiment preview of the Preliminary Activity does not include essential teacher information, safety tips, or sample data. Instructions for Logger Pro and other software (such as LabQuest App or TI handheld software, where available) are on the CD that accompanies the book. We strongly recommend that you purchase the book before performing experiments.
Standards Correlations
See all standards correlations for Investigating Environmental Science through Inquiry »
Experiment 22 from Investigating Environmental Science through Inquiry Lab Book
Included in the Lab Book
Vernier lab books include a CD with word-processing files of the student instructions, essential teacher information, suggested answers, sample data and graphs, and more.