Which form of energy is released or absorbed whenever chemical bonds form or are broken?

• A. Chemical energy
• B. Electrical energy
• C. Mechanical energy
• D. Heat energy

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that chemical bonds store energy, which is called chemical energy. This energy is associated with the arrangement of atoms within molecules.
2. When chemical bonds are broken, energy must be absorbed to overcome the forces holding the atoms together. This means energy input is required to break bonds.
3. Conversely, when chemical bonds form, energy is released because the atoms reach a more stable, lower-energy state.
4. Recognize that the energy involved in these processes is specifically called chemical energy, as it is directly related to the making and breaking of chemical bonds.
5. Differentiate chemical energy from other forms such as electrical energy (related to electric charges), mechanical energy (related to motion or position), and heat energy (energy transferred due to temperature difference), to confirm that chemical energy is the correct answer.