What type of energy does light represent when it interacts with matter?

Light represents electromagnetic energy when it interacts with matter. This form of energy is part of the electromagnetic spectrum, which includes not only visible light but also radio waves, infrared radiation, ultraviolet light, X-rays, and gamma rays.

When light interacts with matter, it can be absorbed, reflected, or transmitted, causing various physical and chemical changes in the material. For example, when light is absorbed by an object, it can cause electrons to become excited, leading to energy transfer in chemical reactions or changes in temperature. This interaction is fundamental to processes such as photosynthesis, where light energy is converted into chemical energy by plants.

Each form of energy listed in the options—chemical energy, potential energy, and kinetic energy—represents different phenomena but does not describe the nature of light itself. Chemical energy pertains to the energy stored in chemical bonds, potential energy is related to the position or state of an object, and kinetic energy is the energy of motion. Therefore, the description of light as electromagnetic energy is the most accurate representation of its interaction with matter.