Higher energy level and shorter wavelength are characteristics of ultraviolet radiation.

Explanation:
- Ultraviolet radiation: Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is a type of electromagnetic radiation with a higher energy level and shorter wavelength than visible light. It is located between X-rays and visible light on the electromagnetic spectrum. UV radiation is not visible to the human eye but can be detected using specialized equipment.

Characteristics of ultraviolet radiation:
1. Higher energy level: Ultraviolet radiation has a higher energy level compared to visible light. This higher energy is due to the shorter wavelength of UV radiation. The energy of electromagnetic radiation is directly proportional to its frequency or inversely proportional to its wavelength. Therefore, as the wavelength of UV radiation decreases, its energy level increases.

2. Shorter wavelength: Ultraviolet radiation has a shorter wavelength than visible light. The wavelength of UV radiation ranges from about 10 nanometers (nm) to 400 nm, whereas visible light ranges from approximately 400 nm to 700 nm. The shorter wavelength of UV radiation corresponds to higher frequencies and energies.

Comparison with other options:
- Infrared radiation: Infrared radiation has a longer wavelength and lower energy level than visible light. It is located between microwaves and visible light on the electromagnetic spectrum.
- Alpha radiation: Alpha radiation consists of alpha particles, which are helium nuclei. It is a type of ionizing radiation but does not have a characteristic energy level or wavelength.
- Beta radiation: Beta radiation consists of beta particles, which are high-energy electrons or positrons. It is also a type of ionizing radiation but does not have a characteristic energy level or wavelength.

Conclusion:
Among the given options, ultraviolet radiation (option D) has higher energy levels and shorter wavelengths. UV radiation is an important component of sunlight and has various applications in medicine, industry, and research.