What are the differences between the various forms of energy (e.g. kinetic, potential, thermal)?

Energy is the ability to do work or cause change in an object. There are several types of energy, including kinetic, potential, and thermal energy. Each type of energy is different and has unique characteristics.

Kinetic Energy

Kinetic energy is the energy of motion. It is the energy an object possesses due to its motion. The faster an object moves, the more kinetic energy it has. The formula to calculate kinetic energy is:

Kinetic Energy = 1/2 x Mass x Velocity²

Potential Energy

Potential energy is the energy an object has due to its position or state. An object at rest has potential energy that can be released when the object is in motion. There are several types of potential energy, including gravitational potential energy, elastic potential energy, and chemical potential energy. The formula to calculate gravitational potential energy is:

Gravitational Potential Energy = Mass x Gravity x Height

Thermal Energy

Thermal energy is the energy an object possesses due to the movement of its particles. It is the total kinetic energy of the particles that make up an object. The higher the temperature of an object, the more thermal energy it has. Thermal energy is transferred from one object to another through conduction, convection, and radiation.