The photon energy of the THz spectra is much less than say the IR spectra, which is the basis for its application. The nucleotides will fluoresce when a THz ray is incident on the molecular structure, but only at specific wavelengths of THz. The "jury is still out on this one." ----- Original Message ----- From: "Alan B Pearce" To: "Microcontroller discussion list - Public." Sent: Friday, May 28, 2010 11:08 AM Subject: Re: [EE] A lot of Hurtz >> HOWEVER it has also been suggested eg >> >> http://www.technologyreview.com/blog/arxiv/24331/ >> >> that THz wavelengths may cause DNA damage. Photon energies are below >> the level required for ionization BUT it is suggested that resonances >> may be caused in the DNA double strand structure causing partial >> "unzippering" and 'bubbles' in the DNA. This is generally not felt to >> be a good idea [tm]. Whether such effects are significant or >> measurable is TBD. > > Well, your body radiates THz wavelengths, and that is the basis of these > full body scanners now being installed at many airports, which have the > catch phrase along the lines of 'show you undressed'. > > This company is a spin off from some work done here at the lab where I > work. > http://www.thruvision.com/ > > > -- > http://www.piclist.com PIC/SX FAQ & list archive > View/change your membership options at > http://mailman.mit.edu/mailman/listinfo/piclist > -- http://www.piclist.com PIC/SX FAQ & list archive View/change your membership options at http://mailman.mit.edu/mailman/listinfo/piclist