Which type of energy is considered stored energy due to the interactions between particles or objects?

• A. $\text{Potential energy}$
• B. $\text{Kinetic energy}$
• C. $\text{Thermal energy}$
• D. $\text{Radiant energy}$

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that energy can exist in various forms, such as kinetic energy, potential energy, thermal energy, and radiant energy.
2. Recall that kinetic energy is the energy an object possesses due to its motion, so it is not stored energy but energy of movement.
3. Recognize that thermal energy is related to the internal energy of particles due to their random motion and vibrations, often associated with heat.
4. Identify radiant energy as energy carried by electromagnetic waves, such as light, which is energy in transit rather than stored energy.
5. Conclude that potential energy is the energy stored within a system due to the position or configuration of particles or objects, arising from forces like gravity or electromagnetic interactions.