What is one of the typical uses of ultraviolet radiation?

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is commonly used in tanning, as it stimulates the production of melanin in the skin, leading to a darker pigmentation. This is why people often seek out UV exposure from both the sun and artificial sources, such as tanning beds, to achieve a bronzed appearance. The skin contains cells called melanocytes, which respond to UV radiation by increasing melanin production, thus contributing to the tanning effect.

On the other hand, cooking food in microwaves involves electromagnetic radiation at a different frequency, primarily in the microwave range, which interacts with water molecules in food rather than UV light. Creating sound waves pertains to mechanical waves and is not connected to electromagnetic radiation like UV. Producing infrared images relies on infrared radiation, which is also different from UV radiation, as infrared is primarily associated with heat rather than the effects of UV on skin.