Final answer:
Heavy objects have very short wavelengths because of their mass, as per de Broglie's hypothesis, which states that wavelength is inversely proportional to momentum. In the quantum context, high frequency EM radiation like X-rays has short wavelengths and can deeply penetrate materials due to the photoelectric effect.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to de Broglie's hypothesis, the wavelength associated with a particle is inversely proportional to its momentum (which is the product of mass and velocity). Therefore, heavier objects (greater mass) tend to have shorter de Broglie wavelengths given the same velocity.
It's also important to clarify that in the context of general everyday objects, we don't typically discuss wavelengths because their quantum effects are negligible and not observable. Quantum effects, including wave-like behavior, become significant only at the atomic or subatomic scales.
However, high frequency electromagnetic radiation photons, like X-rays, inherently have very short wavelengths and high energy levels. This property allows X-rays to penetrate matter to greater depths due to their capability to disrupt materials, which is described as the photoelectric effect.