Photosensitive

Photosensitive describes a substance, material, or organism that exhibits a reaction or change when exposed to light. This reaction can manifest in various ways, including alteration of color, degradation, generation of electrical charge, or stimulation of a physiological response. The sensitivity can range from immediate and dramatic to subtle and gradual, varying with the intensity, wavelength, and duration of the light exposure. Understanding photosensitivity is crucial in fields such as photography, medicine, materials science, and biology. The degree of photosensitivity is determined by the chemical composition or the biological makeup of the affected entity.

Photosensitive meaning with examples

• The photographer carefully protected the photosensitive photographic paper from ambient light, as even brief exposure would ruin the image. This paper, coated with silver halide crystals, darkens upon light exposure, a crucial process in developing black and white photographs. The sensitivity of the paper is directly linked to the density and size of these crystals.
• People with certain skin conditions, like porphyria, are extremely photosensitive, meaning sunlight can cause severe blistering and rashes. They must wear protective clothing and use high SPF sunscreen. Certain medications also increase photosensitivity, making individuals more susceptible to sunburn and sun damage. This can result in skin cancer.
• The team developed a photosensitive polymer that changes color when exposed to ultraviolet light. This material is ideal for use in creating self-erasing labels and security markings. The scientists are able to modify the polymer to have various levels of sensitivity to a number of light spectrums for different applications.
• Researchers are studying photosensitive proteins in the eye to understand how the visual system works. They hope to use light-activated drugs to help patients with damaged photoreceptor cells. The use of the natural photosensitive compounds for new innovative medical treatments
• The artist used photosensitive ink to create an interactive installation; the images on the wall would change subtly based on the ambient light in the room. This allowed for an experience that changed over the time of the day. The audience was intrigued by the artwork which transformed throughout the day.