What is potential energy?

Potential energy is defined as the energy stored in an object due to its position or state. In the context of height, this is specifically gravitational potential energy, which relies on an object's height above the ground and its mass. The greater the height and mass, the more potential energy the object possesses. This energy has the potential to do work when the object is allowed to fall or move, converting that stored energy into kinetic energy, which is energy in motion.

For example, a rock positioned on top of a hill has significant potential energy because of its elevated position. If the rock were to roll down the hill, the potential energy would convert into kinetic energy as it gains speed while descending. Therefore, the definition as stored energy due to height captures the fundamental principle of potential energy effectively.

Other options refer to different forms of energy but do not pertain to the definition of potential energy. Energy in motion describes kinetic energy, energy from chemical reactions pertains to chemical energy, and energy lost to friction relates to the loss of energy in the form of heat due to resistance.