The Nature of Energy

What is Energy? The ability to do work or cause change is called energy. When an object or organism does work on another object, some of its energy is transferred to that object. You can think of work, then, as the transfer of energy. You can think of work, then, as the transfer of energy. When energy is transferred, the object upon which the work is done gains the energy. When energy is transferred, the object upon which the work is done gains the energy. Energy is measured in joules. Energy is measured in joules.

Forms of Energy There are 6 different forms of energy. All are a variety of kinetic and potential energy.

Mechanical Energy The energy associated with the motion or position of an object is called mechanical energy.

Thermal Energy Thermal energy is the measure of the energy of the particles in an object (the faster the particles move, the warmer it feels to the touch).

Chemical Energy Chemical energy is the potential energy stored in chemical bonds that hold chemical compounds together.

Electrical Energy Moving electric charges produce electricity, and electrical energy is the energy they carry.

Electromagnetic Energy Electromagnetic energy is the light that you see each day. It is a form of radiant energy, which is an energy that travels in waves.

Nuclear Energy Nuclear energy is stored in the nucleus of an atom and is released during nuclear reactions. Reactions can occur in two ways: fission, which is the splitting of the nucleus or fusion, which is the joining of nuclei. Nuclear power plants use fission to create energy and the sun and other stars create energy through fusion.

What type of energy transfer would occur with each object listed below: Hair dryer Lamp and light bulb Assorted food Batteries and a flashlight CD player with headphones Beaker of water on a hot plate – forming steam Piece of coal