Which type of energy is stored in a chemical bond?

• A. Thermal energy
• B. Kinetic energy
• C. Radiant energy
• D. Potential energy

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that energy stored within chemical bonds is related to the position and arrangement of atoms, not their motion or heat.
2. Recall that kinetic energy is the energy of motion, thermal energy is related to heat, and radiant energy is energy carried by light or electromagnetic waves.
3. Recognize that potential energy is the energy stored due to the position or configuration of particles, such as atoms in a molecule.
4. Since chemical bonds involve the arrangement of atoms and the forces holding them together, the energy stored in these bonds is a form of potential energy.
5. Therefore, the type of energy stored in a chemical bond is potential energy.