Shorter wavelengths of radiation, such as gamma rays or X-rays, carry more energy than longer wavelengths, such as radio waves or visible light. This phenomenon can be understood through the wave-particle duality of light.
In the context of the electromagnetic spectrum, light can exhibit both wave-like and particle-like properties. The particle-like nature of light is described by photons, which are discrete packets or quanta of energy. The energy of a photon is directly proportional to its frequency (or inversely proportional to its wavelength) according to the equation E = hf, where E is energy, h is Planck's constant, and f is the frequency of the radiation.
When we say that shorter wavelengths carry more energy, it means that the individual photons associated with shorter wavelengths have higher energy levels. Higher energy photons are more energetic because they have a greater frequency, and thus a shorter wavelength. Conversely, longer wavelengths have lower energy photons.
Now, concerning the idea that matter is condensed "energy," it refers to Einstein's famous equation, E = mc², which relates energy (E) to mass (m) through the speed of light (c). This equation states that energy and mass are interchangeable, and any matter can be seen as a form of energy.
When a photon is absorbed by matter, its energy is transferred to the absorbing material. This can cause various effects, such as heating the material, triggering chemical reactions, or exciting electrons to higher energy levels. The absorbed energy can contribute to the internal energy of the system, resulting in a change in its physical state or behavior.
While it's true that photons "disappear" upon absorption, their energy is conserved. The photon's energy manifests itself in different ways, depending on the specific interaction with matter. The absorbed energy is typically converted into other forms, such as kinetic energy of particles, thermal energy, or stored energy in chemical bonds. The disappearance of the photon is a consequence of its energy being transferred to the absorbing material rather than being conserved in the form of a distinct particle.
In summary, shorter wavelengths of radiation carry more energy because they correspond to higher frequency photons. The energy of a photon is proportional to its frequency, and when absorbed by matter, the energy can cause various effects and be converted into different forms, contributing to the overall energy of the system.