Which of the following is a type of potential energy?

• A. Thermal energy
• B. Kinetic energy
• C. Sound energy
• D. $\text{Gravitational potential energy}$

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that potential energy is the energy stored in an object due to its position or configuration, which can be converted into other forms of energy.
2. Recognize that thermal energy is related to the random motion of particles and is a form of internal energy, not potential energy.
3. Know that kinetic energy is the energy an object possesses due to its motion, so it is not potential energy.
4. Identify sound energy as energy carried by sound waves, which is a form of mechanical wave energy, not potential energy.
5. Recall that gravitational potential energy is the energy stored in an object because of its height in a gravitational field, making it a classic example of potential energy.