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All moving objects have kinetic energy—even atoms. The total random moving energy of all of the atoms and molecules in an object is called heat energy (or thermal energy). The moving energy of a rock rolling down a hill is called mechanical energy.
One of the best-known definitions of energy is the classical definition used in physics: Energy is the ability to do work. Physicists define work in a way that does not always agree with the average person’s idea of work.
An Unusual Form of Energy. Mechanical energy can exist as both stored energy (potential energy) and moving energy (kinetic energy). It is the potential energy of an object plus that object’s kinetic energy.
Solar energy is light, heat, and other forms of energy given off by the Sun. Solar energy can be collected and used to heat buildings and to make electricity.
Energy is the ability to do work. It is power that exists everywhere in many forms. The main forms of energy are light, chemical, mechanical, nuclear, electrical, heat, and sound. Energy changes form whenever it is used to do work. When energy changes form it is called energy transformation.
The energy that holds together the nucleus of an atom is called nuclear, or atomic, energy. Atoms are the basic building blocks of matter. The nucleus is the central part of an atom. When nuclear energy is released, it changes into other forms of energy. These forms of energy are called radiation.
Heat is a form of energy. Heat flows from hot objects to cool objects. It flows from one object to another because of their difference in temperature. The cool object absorbs the energy and becomes warmer.
Chemical energy is a form of energy. It is energy that is stored in the bonds between atoms and molecules. Atoms are the basic building blocks of all matter. They can be combined with other atoms to form molecules. Chemical energy is what holds the atoms in a molecule together.
People and other animals can see because there is light. Light is a form of energy. The Sun is a very important source of light energy. Without the energy from the Sun, there would be no plants or animals on Earth’s surface.
Geothermal energy is heat that comes from inside Earth. It is an alternative energy source that can be used for cooking, bathing, and heating. It can also be converted into electricity. Geothermal energy is available anywhere on Earth’s surface.