Which of the following is a characteristic of electromagnetic radiation?

• A. It travels through a vacuum at a constant speed of approximately 3.00 × 10^8 m/s.
• B. It cannot transfer energy.
• C. It consists only of visible light.
• D. It requires a medium to propagate.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that electromagnetic radiation (EMR) encompasses a broad range of waves, including visible light, radio waves, X-rays, and more.
2. Recall that EMR does not require a medium to travel; unlike sound waves, it can propagate through the vacuum of space.
3. Recognize that EMR travels at a constant speed in a vacuum, which is approximately \$3.00 \times 10^{8}$ meters per second, known as the speed of light.
4. Know that EMR can transfer energy, which is why it can cause effects such as heating or chemical changes when absorbed.
5. Conclude that the key characteristic of electromagnetic radiation is its ability to travel through a vacuum at a constant speed, not limited to visible light and capable of energy transfer.