"Kinetic
energy is stored energy."
An object can store energy as the result of its position.
For example, the heavy heavy ball of a demolition machine
is storing energy when it is held at an elevated position.
This stored energy of position is referred to as potential
energy. Similarly, a drawn bow is able to store energy as
the result of its position. When assuming its usual position
(i.e., when not drawn), there is no energy stored in the
bow. Yet when its position is altered from its usual equilibrium
position, the bow is able to store energy by virtue of its
position. This stored energy of position is referred to
as potential energy. Potential energy is the stored energy
of position possessed by an object.
If you lift an object
up, you put energy into the gravitational field. This energy
is not immediately apparent. It is stored energy. The higher
you lift the object, the more the energy is stored in the
gravitational field. So, the amount of energy that is stored
is a function of where you locate the object, a function
of how high up you lift it. Therefore, potential energy
is not only called stored energy, it is also called energy
dependent upon position
Chemical Energy is energy stored
in the bonds of atoms and molecules. It is the energy that
holds these particles together. Biomass, petroleum, natural
gas, and propane are examples of stored chemical energy.
Stored Mechanical Energy is energy
stored in objects by the application of a force. Compressed
springs and stretched rubber bands are examples of stored
mechanical energy.
Nuclear Energy is energy stored
in the nucleus of an atom––the energy that holds the nucleus
together. The energy can be released when the nuclei are combined
or split apart. Nuclear power plants split the nuclei of uranium
atoms in a process called fission. The sun combines the nuclei
of hydrogen atoms in a process called fusion. Scientists are
working on creating fusion energy on earth, so that someday
there might be fusion power plants.
Gravitational Energy is the energy
of position or place. A rock resting at the top of a hill
contains gravitational potential energy. Hydropower, such
as water in a reservoir behind a dam, is an example of gravitational
potential energy.
back