Which of the following best describes photons?

Photons are best described as particles with zero mass and no charge, making them unique within the realm of particles. They are the fundamental carriers of electromagnetic radiation, which includes visible light, radio waves, and X-rays. Because they have no mass, photons can travel at the speed of light, which is a defining characteristic of their nature.

Photons are also entirely neutral in terms of electrical charge, allowing them to interact with other particles without being influenced by electromagnetic forces themselves. This neutrality facilitates their ability to propagate through various media, making them essential for the transmission of energy across distances in the form of electromagnetic waves.

The description emphasizing their zero mass and lack of charge captures the essence of photons in both physics and radiation safety contexts, such as understanding their behavior in different environments and their interactions with matter.