Introduction The warm embrace of the sun, with its golden rays, can be invigorating and uplifting. However, spending too much time under its rays without proper protection can lead to a painful and potentially harmful experience: sunburn. Sunburn is not just a simple inconvenience; it's a result of complex interactions between the sun's ultraviolet (UV) radiation and our skin. In this article, we will delve into the science behind sunburn, exploring why our skin burns when exposed to the sun. The Sun's Ultraviolet Radiation The sun emits a wide spectrum of electromagnetic radiation, including visible light, infrared radiation, and UV radiation. Of particular concern are the UV rays, which are divided into three categories: UVA, UVB, and UVC. UVC rays are absorbed by the Earth's atmosphere and do not reach the surface. However, UVA and UVB rays can penetrate our atmosphere and interact with our skin. Skin's Defense Mechanisms Our skin acts as a natural barrier betwe...