Final answer:
X-ray radiation has higher energy per photon than visible light because X-rays have a higher frequency. This high energy allows for better penetration of matter and also requires careful use to prevent potential damage from ionization.
Step-by-step explanation:
The student has asked if X-ray radiation has higher or lower energy per photon compared to other types of electromagnetic radiation. Given that the energy of a photon is directly proportional to its frequency, and that X-rays have a higher frequency than visible light, we can conclude that X-rays carry with them more energy per photon. This high energy is what allows X-rays to penetrate matter more effectively than lower-energy photons such as those of visible light.
For instance, the high-energy X-ray at your dentist's office is a high-frequency wave capable of penetrating tissues for imaging purposes. It is precisely because of this high energy that patients need to be protected from overexposure to X-rays, as they can cause ionization of atoms within the body's cells, potentially leading to damage.
In contrast, visible light photons like those from the lights in a waiting room do not carry enough energy to cause such ionization, which is why there is less concern about exposure to visible light.