actinic radiation

noun

Meaning

Electromagnetic radiation that is capable of inducing chemical changes in exposed matter, particularly light in the ultraviolet and blue regions of the spectrum.

Examples

  • Prolonged exposure to actinic radiation can degrade certain types of plastics and pigments over time.
  • Photographic film is specifically designed to be sensitive to actinic radiation to capture images.

Synonyms: ultraviolet light, photochemical radiation, ionizing radiation