Question

What are the main forms of energy? Define each type

Answer 1

Thermal energy - the internal kinetic energy in a substance caused by vibration of atoms and molecules. Thermal energy is also known as heat.

Radiant energy - is the electromagnetic energy that travels in waves. Radiant energy is kinetic energy that includes light, x-rays, microwaves, and radio waves.

Elastic energy - potential energy produced from stored or released elastic materials. This is stored mechanical energy energy resulting from being stretched or compressed.

Mechanical energy - the energy an object possesses due to movement. Mechanical energy is kinetic energy because it is the movement from one position to another.

Gravitational energy - the potential energy an object has because of position. This is produced from gravitational force acting upon an object.

Chemical energy - the potential energy stored in the bonds of molecules and compounds.

Nuclear energy - potential energy stored in the core (nucleus) of an atom.

Electrical energy - the kinetic energy produced from the movement of an electric charge.