Science fair projects using ultraviolet light can be carried out in a number of ways. Since ultraviolet light is radiated by the sun, science fair projects using an artificial light source can explore the various effects of ultraviolet sunlight in a microcosmic experiment. Additionally, since ultraviolet light is invisible to the human eye, these science fair projects exemplify the limited portion of the electromagnet spectrum that we perceive.
Invisible Ink
Create a poster board that features writing or illustration in invisible ink. Invisible ink cannot be seen by the human eye under normal lighting conditions. However, when an ultraviolet light bulb, or black light, illuminates invisible ink, the ink has a glowing effect. On the poster board, include writing or illustrations done in normal ink. Then, when the poster is presented under ultraviolet light, the invisible ink stands out. One example is a question and answer sheet featuring scientific facts. The questions are written in conventional ink while the answers are written in invisible ink. The answers are then revealed by turning on a black light.
Fading Newspaper
Use a conventional newspaper to demonstrate the tanning effect of ultraviolet light. Place an ultraviolet light above a newspaper demonstration. Use pieces of cardboard to cover multiple sections of the newspaper. Leave the newspaper underneath the ultraviolet light overnight. Alternatively, place the newspaper under direct sunlight to achieve the same effect from natural ultraviolet rays. The exposed portions of the newspaper will develop a faded yellowish appearance, while the covered portions will remain unchanged. This science fair project demonstrates, by analogy, the harmful effects that ultraviolet light has on human skin.
Suntan Lotion
Use an ultraviolet light detector, also known as a UV monitor, to test the effectiveness of various suntan lotions. Use lotions manufactured by multiple brands and which feature different sun protection factor (SPF) ratings. Place a sheet of clear plastic wrap over the top of the UV monitor sensor. Then, apply a thin layer of suntan lotion to the plastic wrap and observe the change in the UV monitor readout. Repeat this procedure for each type of suntan lotion. Conclude the science fair project with a comparison between the effectiveness of different brands, as well as the effects of different SPF ratings.
Sunglasses
Use a UV monitor to test the effectiveness of sunglasses. Choose glasses from multiple manufacturers and with a variety of lens colors. Place each pair of glasses over the top of the UV monitor sensor and observe the change in ultraviolet light reading. An alternative method is to place a tinted sheet or glass in front of the ultraviolet light source to simulate sunglasses. This version can be combined with the invisible ink or newspaper science fair projects to demonstrate the way that sunglasses block out certain harmful ultraviolet rays while allowing other colors to pass through.
