Correct Answer:
C. Gamma
The correct answer is Gamma rays. Gamma rays are a form of electromagnetic radiation, similar to X-rays, but they possess the shortest wavelengths and highest frequencies in the electromagnetic spectrum. This characteristic directly correlates with having the highest energy among the given options.
- Alpha particles are composed of two protons and two neutrons (a helium nucleus) and have relatively low penetrating power and energy compared to gamma rays.
- Beta particles are high-energy electrons or positrons. While more energetic than alpha particles, they still have significantly less energy than gamma rays.
- X-rays are also electromagnetic radiation, but they typically have longer wavelengths and lower frequencies, and thus lower energy, than gamma rays.