Energy is the property of matter that allows us to do work and generate heat. It can be transferred from a source to a physical system for use in the form of work and heat. It is an inexhaustible resource; however, it cannot be created or destroyed. This law explains the use of energy, and how it is conserved. To better understand the importance of energy, it is helpful to have a grasp of the laws that govern energy.
There are several types of energy. Kinetic energy is the form that requires the application of work to move an object. Examples of kinetic energy include airplanes, falling objects, and wind. This form of energy is measured in joules, which are the smallest units of energy. To understand a unit’s value, let’s start with its definition. By defining what it is, we can understand how it works and how it is converted.
Chemical energy is potential energy that is stored within chemical bonds. This form of energy is only observed during chemical reactions. Potential or latent energy is the energy that is contained within an object, waiting to do work. When a force is applied, this stored energy is put into motion. As a result, the energy is converted into kinetic energy. If the force is applied, the energy in the object is released and becomes motion. This is known as kinetic energy.