In physics, energy is the capacity for doing work. It may exist in various forms like Kinetic, potential, thermal, electric, radiant, chemical energy, and many other forms. Energy can never be destroyed; it can only be transferred from one body to another. However, all forms of energy are associated with motion.
The SI unit of energy is Joules, named after James Prescott Joules. Energy can neither be created nor be destroyed. Energy exists in different forms. Let us discuss these various forms of energy.
Forms of Energy
Here are various types of energy in physics.
Chemical Energy
The storage of chemical energy is in the bonds of chemical compounds (molecules and atoms); it holds them together. Chemical energy is a chemical reaction, released in the form of heat. For example, the flame of a candle produces light and radiates heat, and the food we eat produces chemical energy.
Thermal or Heat Energy
When atoms and molecules vibrate, they produce thermal energy. The faster they move, the hotter they become. This type of energy reflects the temperature difference between the two systems. For instance, a hot cup of tea produces thermal energy, and we also use thermal radiation for cooking food.
Nuclear Energy
The nucleus of atoms contains nuclear energy. Nuclear energy can be produced either by fusion (combining atoms) or fission (splitting of atoms) process. When there is fusion or fission, this energy is released. This fission process used in nuclear energy. Nuclear fusion, nuclear fission, and nuclear decay are some examples of nuclear energy.
Electric Energy
Electric energy is the movement of electrons through a substance is known as electrical energy. It derived from kinetic and potential energy. It is one of the most common and useful forms of energy. The electric field applies the force on the charged particles causing them to move. For example, lightning.
Radiant Energy
It is the energy of electromagnetic waves or gravitational waves. This form of energy can travel through space. It is a combination of heat and light energy. It is a type of kinetic energy that travels in transverse waves. For example, the light bulb.
Light Energy
It is a form of electromagnetic radiation emitted by hot objects. Light energy is rapid. It can produce through natural and man-made sources. It is the source of energy for all living beings. The natural source of light energy is Sun, and the man-made could be a light bulb, candle, and so many.
Sound energy
Sound Energy produced when a force makes an object move or vibrates. We hear the sound around us due to sound waves in our space. It travels out like waves in all directions. Sound needs a medium to travel through air or water.
