Which statements best describe energy? Check all that apply.

Question

The total amount of energy in the universe remains constant.
The total amount of energy in the universe changes constantly.
Energy cannot be converted from one form to another.
Energy can be converted from one form to another.
Energy cannot be created or destroyed.
Energy can be created or destroyed.

Answer 1

The following statements best describe energy:

1. The total amount of energy in the universe remains constant. (This reflects the law of conservation of energy.)
2. Energy can be converted from one form to another. (Energy can change forms, such as kinetic energy to potential energy.)
3. Energy cannot be created or destroyed. (This is also a reflection of the law of conservation of energy.)

The other statements are not accurate:

• The total amount of energy in the universe changes constantly. (This is incorrect; the total amount of energy remains constant.)
• Energy cannot be converted from one form to another. (This is incorrect; energy can be converted between forms.)
• Energy can be created or destroyed. (This is incorrect; energy cannot be created or destroyed.)