Which term is used to describe energy that is stored due to an object's position or chemical composition?

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

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the difference between kinetic and potential energy: Kinetic energy is the energy an object has due to its motion, while potential energy is the energy stored due to an object's position or configuration.
2. Recognize that energy stored because of an object's position (like a rock on a hill) or chemical composition (like energy stored in chemical bonds) is called potential energy.
3. Identify that radiant energy refers to energy carried by electromagnetic waves, such as light, and thermal energy relates to the internal energy due to temperature.
4. Conclude that the term describing energy stored due to position or chemical composition is 'potential energy'.
5. Remember that potential energy can be converted into kinetic energy when the object moves or when chemical reactions release stored energy.