The Sun is Hot

After years of research, scientists have discovered that the sun is hot. And it will burn you.

Years and years of exposure to the sun can give one an unattractive, if leathery and worn, appearance. Basic research shows that the surface of the Sun consists of hydrogen (about 74% of its mass, or 92% of its volume), helium (about 24-25% of mass,[10] 7% of volume), and trace quantities of other elements, including iron, nickel, oxygen, silicon, sulfur, magnesium, carbon, neon, calcium, and chromium. The Sun has a spectral class of G2V. G2 means that it has a surface temperature of approximately 5,780 K, giving it a white color that often, because of atmospheric scattering, appears yellow when seen from the surface of the Earth. That "K" stands for Kelvin. Not the person, but the temperature scale. I dare not look at how that translates into Farehnheit, since it would boggle the mind.

You should be aware that ultraviolet (UV) rays are an invisible form of radiation. They can penetrate your skin and damage your skin cells. Sunburns are a sign of skin damage. Suntans aren't healthy, either. They appear after the sun's rays have already killed some cells and damaged others. UV rays can cause skin damage during any season or at any temperature. They can also cause eye problems, wrinkles, skin spots, and skin cancer.

To protect yourself:

• Stay out of the sun when it is strongest (between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.)


• Use sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher


• Wear protective clothing


• Wear wraparound sunglasses that provide 100 percent UV ray protection


• Avoid sunlamps and tanning beds


• Avoid beaches when your skin is already leathery and worn.

You will do good to abide by these simple, commonsensical guidelines. Plus, onlookers will appreciate your consideration.