Final answer:
3. Infrared rays have the ability to produce the most heat due to their longer wavelengths, despite not penetrating as deeply as X-rays or gamma rays.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the context of the electromagnetic spectrum, infrared rays have longer wavelengths and are known for producing heat. X-rays and gamma rays have much shorter wavelengths and higher frequencies, which allows them to penetrate matter deeply. However, infrared rays do not penetrate as deeply as X-rays or gamma rays, but they have the ability to produce the most heat among the options listed due to their longer wavelengths which are closely associated with thermal energy.
Gamma rays have the longest wavelength, penetrate the deepest, and produce the most heat out of the given options. Gamma rays have the highest energy and are the most penetrating type of electromagnetic radiation. They can travel through thick layers of material, such as concrete and lead.