Potential Energy Diagrams

Definition

Potential Energy Diagrams are specific types of energy diagrams that show how potential energy changes over time during a chemical process or physical change.

Analogy

Imagine hiking up and down hills on a trail – your potential energy increases as you climb uphill (absorbing more gravitational potential) and decreases when you descend (releasing gravitational potential). A Potential Energy Diagram tracks these ups-and-downs throughout your hike (or chemical process).

Related terms

Endothermic Reaction: A type of chemical reaction that absorbs heat from its surroundings. In our hiking analogy, this would be equivalent to climbing uphill - requiring more effort or 'energy'.

Kinetic Energy: The energy of an object due to its motion. It's like the speed you gain when running downhill on your hike.

Potential Energy: The stored energy in an object or system due to its position or arrangement. This is like being at the top of a hill on your hike, ready to run down.