Overview
This lecture introduces the basic concepts of potential and kinetic energy, with a focus on chemical potential energy as stored in chemical bonds, and its transformation during chemical reactions.
Types of Energy
- There are two main types of energy: potential energy and kinetic energy.
- Potential energy is stored energy that has the capacity to do work but is not currently being used.
- Kinetic energy is the energy of motion, causing work through movement.
Chemical Potential Energy
- Chemical potential energy is the energy stored in the chemical bonds of substances.
- Gasoline contains chemical potential energy that is released during combustion in a car engine.
- The release of chemical potential energy in gasoline produces both work (moving the car) and heat (warming the engine).
- Energy changes in a system can occur as heat, work, or a combination of both.
- Dynamite contains nitroglycerin, which stores a large amount of chemical potential energy and explodes rapidly when ignited.
- Stabilizing agents, such as diatomaceous earth, are mixed with nitroglycerin to make dynamite safer to handle.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Potential Energy — energy stored in an object or substance, not currently in use.
- Kinetic Energy — energy of motion; energy possessed by moving objects.
- Chemical Potential Energy — energy stored within the chemical bonds of a compound, available for release during reactions.
- Combustion — the process of burning a substance, often releasing chemical potential energy as heat and work.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review examples of potential and kinetic energy in everyday life.
- Study the next section on heat and its role in energy transfer (17.2: Heat).