Natural Science: Energy and Its Forms

Vocabulary flashcards defining fundamental energy concepts, units of measurement, and various forms of kinetic and potential energy from the natural science notes.

Energy

What is needed to make things happen; it allows things to move, change, grow, or work.

Joules (J)

The standard unit used to measure energy.

Kilojoule (KJ)

A measurement of energy equal to $1000\text{ Joules (J)}$.

Kinetic energy

The energy of movement; energy possessed by anything that is moving.

Potential energy

Stored energy that an object possesses due to its position or condition.

Elastic potential energy

Stored energy found in an object that has been stretched, squeezed, or wound up (such as a stretched elastic band).

Gravitational potential energy

Stored energy an object has due to its height or position (such as a book resting on a high shelf).

Chemical potential energy

Energy stored within chemical substances (such as food used by bodies).

Renewable energy

Energy derived from sources that can be replaced naturally, including solar, wind, hydropower, and biofuels.