Evaluate how different frequencies of electromagnetic radiation are absorbed by biological matter, converting to thermal energy or causing ionizing damage (HS-PS4-4).
Lower frequencies (longer wavelengths) like Radio, Microwaves, and Infrared do not have enough photon energy to break chemical bonds. When absorbed, they simply increase atomic vibration (heat).
Higher frequencies (shorter wavelengths) like UV, X-Rays, and Gamma Rays have massive photon energy. They can knock electrons out of atoms (ionizing them) and break DNA bonds, damaging living cells.