Which of the following best describes electromagnetic radiation?

Electromagnetic radiation is indeed a form of energy that is emitted by charged particles. This energy takes various forms, including visible light, radio waves, X-rays, and gamma rays, among others. The key characteristic of electromagnetic radiation is that it propagates as waves, consisting of oscillating electric and magnetic fields. These waves can travel through the vacuum of space, which is why they can reach us from distant stars and galaxies.

This understanding emphasizes the broad nature of electromagnetic radiation beyond just visible light, which is why the option acknowledging it as energy from charged particles is the most accurate. It’s significant to highlight that while electromagnetic radiation can occur in a vacuum, it does not require a medium to travel, making it unique compared to sound waves or other types of mechanical waves, which do require a medium.