1. Forms of Energy

2. Nature of Energy Energy is the ability to do work. If an object or organism does work, then it uses energy. Work is the use of a force that causes an object to move in the direction of the force Because of the direct connection between energy and work, energy is measured in the same unit as work: joules (J).

3. Forms of Energy The main forms of energy are: Mechanical energy Heat or Thermal energy Chemical energy Electrical energy Nuclear energy Electromagnetic energy

4. Mechanical Energy When work is done to an object, it acquires energy. This energy is known as mechanical energy. There are two types of Mechanical Energy. Kinetic Energy is the energy an object has because of its motion Potential Energy is the energy an object has because of its position

5. Thermal Energy (Heat Energy) The internal motion of the atoms is called heat energy, because moving particles produce heat. Heat energy causes changes in temperature. The average kinetic energy of all the particles in a substance is temperature

6. Electrical Energy Electrical Energy is the energy of moving electrons. Electrons are the negatively charged particle that makes up part of an atom When electrons flow through materials, or jump from one place to another, electrical energy is produced.

7. Chemical Energy Chemical Energy is required to bond the atoms that make up molecules together. When these bonds are broken, energy is absorbed or released. Fuel and food are forms of stored chemical energy.

8. Nuclear Energy The nucleus of an atom is the source of nuclear energy. When the nucleus splits (fission), nuclear energy is released in the form of heat energy and light energy. Nuclear energy is also released when nuclei collide at high speeds and join (fusion). Nuclear energy is the most concentrated form of energy.

9. Electromagnetic Energy Light is a form of electromagnetic energy. Each color of light represents a different amount of electromagnetic energy. Electromagnetic energy travels in waves. X-rays, radio waves, and laser lights, microwaves, and infrared radiation are examples of electromagnetic energy.