There are many forms of potential energy:

Question

Chemical energy – energy stored within bonds between molecules. Examples are food and gasoline
Nuclear energy– energy created when nuclei of atoms are split or combined. Examples are the energy that fuels stars like our sun, or nuclear power plants.
Elastic energy – energy stored within an object due to being stretched or deformed. Examples are stretching a rubber band or jumping on a trampoline.
Gravitational energy – energy stored in an object because of its height. Examples are a book sitting on a shelf or a rollercoaster at the top of a hill.
Which of these forms of energy can you observe during a fire?

Answer 1

During a fire, you can primarily observe chemical energy and thermal energy (which is related but not listed as one of your specified forms of potential energy).

1. Chemical Energy: The fire begins when the chemical bonds in fuels (like wood, paper, or gasoline) break during combustion. This releases energy in the form of heat and light as the molecules rearrange to form new substances (like carbon dioxide and water).

2. Thermal Energy: While not specified in your list, it is worth noting that the combustion process generates thermal energy, which is the heat produced by the fire. This thermal energy is a result of the chemical reactions taking place.

The other forms of energy listed, such as nuclear energy, elastic energy, and gravitational energy, are not directly relevant to the process of a fire. In summary, the most observable form of potential energy during a fire is chemical energy, as it is converted into thermal energy and light.