Some examples of potential energy include:
1. Gravitational potential energy: The energy possessed by an object due to its height above the ground. For example, a book placed on a shelf has potential energy because if it falls, it can do work by exerting a force.
2. Chemical potential energy: The energy stored in the chemical bonds of molecules. It can be released through chemical reactions. For example, fossil fuels such as coal, oil, and gas store potential energy in their chemical bonds.
3. Elastic potential energy: The energy stored in objects that can be stretched or compressed. For example, a stretched rubber band or a coiled spring possess potential energy that can be released and converted to other forms of energy.
4. Nuclear potential energy: The energy stored within atomic nuclei. It is released through nuclear reactions, such as radioactive decay or nuclear fission. Nuclear power plants utilize this energy source.
5. Electric potential energy: The energy stored in an electric field. It is associated with electric charges and their positions relative to each other. For example, a charged battery or a charged capacitor possesses potential energy.
6. Magnetic potential energy: The energy stored in a magnetic field due to the alignment or arrangement of magnets. It can be released when these magnets interact.
What are some examples of potential energy?
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