Forms of energy

Energy can be found in various forms in nature. But energy is either potential energy or kinetic energy.

Potential energy

Potential energy is stored energy. Following are some forms of energy that contain stored potential energy.

Chemical Energy - Chemical energy is energy stored in the bonds of atoms and molecules. Examples - battery, coal, natural gas

Mechanical Energy - Energy stored in objects by tension. Example - Stretched rubber band

Nuclear Energy - Energy stored in the nucleus of an atom. It’s the energy that holds the nucleus together

Gravitational Energy - Energy stored in an object’s height. The higher and heavier the object more energy is stored.

Kinetic energy

Kinetic energy is the motion of waves, electrons, atoms, molecules, substances and objects. Following are some forms of energy that contain stored kinetic energy.

Radiant Energy - Electomagnetic energy that travels in transverse waves. Example - X-Rays, light, radiowaves

Thermal Energy - It is the energy that comes form the movement of atoms and molecules in a substance. Example - Geothermal energy

Motion Energy - Energy stored in moving objects. The faster an object moves the more its motion energy. Example - Wind

Sound Energy - Sound is energy moving through substances in longitudinal waves. When an object vibrates it transfers the energy in the form of waves through the medium.

Electrical Energy - Electrical energy is energy delivered by tiny charged particles called electrons.