When chemical bonds are broken during a reaction, which type of energy is primarily absorbed or released?

• A. Radiant energy
• B. Electrical energy
• C. Chemical energy
• D. Nuclear energy

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that chemical bonds store energy, which is often referred to as chemical energy.
2. When bonds are broken, energy must be absorbed to overcome the attractive forces holding atoms together; this means energy input is required.
3. When new bonds form, energy is released because the system moves to a lower energy state.
4. Recognize that the energy involved in breaking and forming bonds is specifically chemical energy, not radiant, electrical, or nuclear energy.
5. Therefore, the primary type of energy absorbed or released during bond breaking and formation is chemical energy.