Energy

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In physics, energy is a property of objects which can be transferred to other objects or converted into different forms, but cannot be created or destroyed.

Energy has many different forms, making a comprehensive definition difficult.

One common definition: energy is the ability of a system to perform work.

In SI units, energy is measured in joules, the energy transferred to an object by the mechanical work of moving it 1 metre against a force of 1 newton.

All of the many forms of energy are convertible to other kinds of energy, and obey the conservation of energy.

Common energy forms include:

  • The kinetic energy of a moving object
  • The radiant energy carried by light
  • The potential energy stored by an object's position in a force field
    • Gravitational
    • Electric
    • Magnetic
  • The elastic energy stored by stretching solid objects
  • The chemical energy released when a fuel burns
  • The thermal energy due to an object's temperature

See also

External links