Physicists say energy is the ability to do work. Moreover, the Qualitative Research Group at Northwestern University adds that work is moving something against a force like gravity. When we inquire about energy in more detail, we discover it is everywhere from the tiniest molecule to the mighty universe itself.
About Energy in Its Many and Diverse Forms
There are many applications where energy does its work. Heat energy for example occurs as a result of agitating molecules, in a cooking pot or microwave for example. Whereas kinetic energy is power in motion. Just like a gridiron footballer cutting through the opposing side to achieve their goal.
Potential energy, on the other hand is latent power waiting for an opportunity to unleash. If we accidentally knock a mug of coffee off a table we release the power of gravity. This brings the mug crashing to the ground. The potential energy in our bodies erupts in a scramble to catch it. Or belatedly rush to the kitchen to fetch a cloth to wipe the floor. Life is about energy all around us.
Mechanical Energy is the Sum of All These Powers
Mechanical energy is the sum of all these powers in a body. However, there are other, more independent forms of this power. We experience the energy in photons as light, and that of protons, electrons, and ions as electrical energy.
Other common forms of energy include magnetic energy in a field, and the power released as chemicals interact. Nuclear energy is best left alone, unless we want to risk man-made disasters like the Chernobyl melt down. Finally, the geothermal energy deep in the earth erupts as volcanoes to remind us how weak and defenseless we are.
Green, renewable energy wants to harness these powers so we can stop using the potential energy in coal and oil to wreck our environment. Some forms, like kinetic energy from the wind and thermal energy from the sun are now in our hands.
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