Potential Energy
Definition
Potential Energy refers to stored energy in an object due to its position or arrangement. In chemistry, molecules have potential energy based on their structure and composition.
Analogy
Imagine you're holding a bow with an arrow pulled back ready to fire - that arrow has potential energy because when you let go, it will spring forward using that stored up power. Similarly, molecules hold potential 'power' within them which can be released during reactions.
Related terms
Kinetic Energy: This is active motion-energy rather than stored-up potential; think about when you release that arrow – it now has kinetic instead of potential energy!
Chemical Potential Energy: This specific type refers directly to how much stored-up power a molecule has due to its chemical structure, like how tightly you've pulled back the arrow on your bow.
Gravitational Potential Energy: This is energy an object possesses because of its position in a gravitational field. It's like holding that arrow up high - it has more potential energy because gravity can pull it down.
"Potential Energy" appears in:
Subjects (3)
Study guides (5)
Additional resources (1)
Practice Questions (4)
- A potential energy graph of O₂ is represented in the graph above. Which of the following is the potential energy on the y-axis representing?
- How does the potential energy change when a solvent is being dissolved in a solute?
- Where can you find the potential energy of the reactants in an energy diagram?
- Where can you find the potential energy of the products in an energy diagram?
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