Which energy form is energy possessed due to position and may be released?

• A. Kinetic energy
• B. Thermal energy
• C. Potential energy
• D. Chemical energy

Answer: (C)

Potential energy is energy stored by virtue of an object's position or configuration, and it can be released when that position changes. For example, a book held above the ground has gravitational potential energy that is released as it falls, transforming into kinetic energy. A compressed spring stores elastic potential energy that is released when the spring is allowed to extend. Kinetic energy is energy of motion, not stored due to position. Thermal energy relates to temperature and the random motion of molecules, not the position of an object. Chemical energy is stored in chemical bonds and is released in chemical reactions, not simply by changing an object's position. Therefore, the energy form described is potential energy.