What type of energy is associated with electromagnetic waves, including light and X-rays?

The energy associated with electromagnetic waves, including light and X-rays, is classified as radiant energy. Radiant energy is the energy carried by electromagnetic waves, which encompasses a broad spectrum, ranging from radio waves to gamma rays. This type of energy is characterized by its ability to travel through space and does not require a medium to propagate, allowing it to transmit energy over vast distances.

In addition, radiant energy is vital in various applications, such as solar energy harnessing, communication technologies, and even in medical imaging techniques that use X-rays. Understanding this concept is essential because it emphasizes the fundamental role of electromagnetic radiation in both natural processes and technological advancements.

The other types of energy listed do not apply to electromagnetic waves. Chemical energy refers to the energy stored in the bonds of chemical compounds, sound energy pertains to mechanical vibrations traveling through a medium, and thermal energy is associated with the temperature of objects due to the motion of particles. Each of these forms of energy has its distinct properties and contexts, making radiant energy the appropriate answer for this question.