Forms of Energy

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What is Gravitational Potential Energy?

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Gravitational Potential Energy is energy stored due to an object's position in a gravitational field, commonly due to Earth's gravity. Example: A marble sitting at the top of a hill.

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What is Nuclear Energy?

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Nuclear Energy is the energy released when the nucleus of an atom is split apart (during fission) or combined with another nucleus (during fusion).

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What is Mechanical Energy?

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Mechanical Energy is a form of kinetic energy that an object has because of its motion or position. Example: Wind makes a windmill’s arm turn and creates electricity.

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What is Electrical Energy?

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Electrical Energy is the ability to do work by the movement of electric charge (electricity).

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What is Solar Energy?

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Solar Energy is energy created by the sun.

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What is Thermal Energy?

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Thermal Energy is the energy that comes from the temperature of matter. The hotter the substance, the more thermal energy it has.

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What is Chemical Energy?

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Chemical Energy is the energy stored in the bonds of chemical compounds, like atoms and molecules. Example: Food contains chemical energy.

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What is Kinetic Energy?

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Kinetic Energy is the energy an object has due to its motion. The faster an object moves, the more kinetic energy it has.

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What is the Law of Conservation of Energy?

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The Law of Conservation of Energy states that energy cannot be created or destroyed, only transformed from one form to another.

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What is Radiant Energy?

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Radiant Energy is the energy of electromagnetic waves. It includes visible light, radio waves, and X-rays.