Which of the following best defines chemical energy?

• A. The energy released when a substance undergoes a phase change.
• B. The energy due to the position of an object in a gravitational field.
• C. The energy stored within the bonds of atoms and molecules in a substance.
• D. The energy associated with the motion of objects.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that chemical energy refers to the energy stored in the bonds between atoms and molecules within a substance.
2. Recognize that this energy can be released or absorbed during chemical reactions when bonds are broken or formed.
3. Differentiate chemical energy from other types of energy such as thermal energy (associated with motion of particles), gravitational potential energy (due to position in a gravitational field), and phase change energy (energy involved in changing states of matter).
4. Identify that the correct definition of chemical energy is the energy stored within the bonds of atoms and molecules in a substance.
5. Confirm that the other options describe different forms of energy and do not accurately define chemical energy.