Which type of radiation has enough energy to create ions by removing tightly bound electrons?

Ionizing radiation is characterized by its ability to remove tightly bound electrons from atoms, thus creating ions. This process occurs because ionizing radiation possesses high energy levels sufficient to overcome the attractive forces holding electrons in place around the nucleus. Common types of ionizing radiation include alpha particles, beta particles, gamma rays, and X-rays. Each of these can impart enough energy to cause ionization, leading to chemical changes and potential biological harm.

Non-ionizing radiation, in contrast, does not have enough energy to strip electrons from atoms. It can include types such as radio waves and microwaves, which operate at lower energy levels and do not result in ionization.

Thermal radiation refers to the emission of infrared radiation by objects based on their temperature and is not classified as ionizing.

Electromagnetic radiation encompasses a wide range of radiation types, including both ionizing and non-ionizing. While ionizing radiation is a subset of electromagnetic radiation, the term itself does not specifically denote the ability to ionize atoms. Therefore, selecting ionizing radiation accurately identifies the type most directly associated with the creation of ions through electron removal.