Which of the following best describes electromagnetic radiation?

Electromagnetic radiation is best described as a form of energy that travels in waves. This type of energy encompasses a wide range of wavelengths and frequencies, which can be seen in the electromagnetic spectrum that includes radio waves, microwaves, infrared, visible light, ultraviolet, X-rays, and gamma rays. The wave nature of electromagnetic radiation leads to phenomena such as interference and diffraction, which demonstrate its wave-like characteristics.

Potential energy, while a form of energy, does not describe the wave nature or the propagation of electromagnetic radiation. Similarly, electromagnetic radiation is not a type of chemical bond; chemical bonds involve interactions between atoms and molecules, whereas electromagnetic radiation is a form of energy transfer. Lastly, electromagnetic radiation is not considered a physical substance, as it does not consist of matter; rather, it is a form of radiation that can be described in terms of its wavelength and frequency.