Final answer:
Different forms of energy have distinct characteristics. Thermal energy is related to atomic and molecular motion and is measured by temperature. Radiant energy is carried by light, microwaves, and radio waves. Electrical energy is associated with the flow of electrically charged particles. Nuclear energy is stored in an atom's nucleus and is released during nuclear reactions. Chemical energy is related to the arrangement of atoms in a compound and is associated with breaking and forming chemical bonds.
Step-by-step explanation:
Forms of Energy
In the physical world, there are different forms of energy including thermal energy, radiant energy, electrical energy, nuclear energy, and chemical energy.
Characteristics of Different Forms of Energy
Thermal energy: Results from atomic and molecular motion, and the temperature of an object is a measure of its thermal energy content.
Radiant energy: Carried by light, microwaves, and radio waves; objects exposed to radiant energy can become warm.
Electrical energy: Results from the flow of electrically charged particles, such as lightning.
Nuclear energy: Stored in the nucleus of an atom and released when particles in the nucleus are rearranged.
Chemical energy: Results from the particular arrangement of atoms in a chemical compound; heat and light are produced during the breaking and reforming of chemical bonds.