Which type of energy does thermal energy represent?

• A. Nuclear energy
• B. Kinetic energy
• C. Potential energy
• D. Chemical energy

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that thermal energy is the energy associated with the temperature of a system, which arises from the motion of particles within that system.
2. Recall that kinetic energy is the energy of motion, while potential energy is the energy stored due to position or configuration.
3. Recognize that thermal energy results from the microscopic kinetic energy of atoms and molecules moving and vibrating.
4. Differentiate thermal energy from nuclear energy (energy stored in the nucleus) and chemical energy (energy stored in chemical bonds).
5. Conclude that thermal energy represents kinetic energy because it is directly related to the motion of particles.