Forms of energy
Potential
Stored energy that can be drawn upon to do work. Suspended loads, compressed springs, and pressurized hydraulic systems are examples. Potential energy can be converted to kinetic energy and many of the other energy forms described below.
Kinetic
Energy resulting from moving objects such as released loads and uncoiling springs. When these objects are released, their potential energy is converted to kinetic energy.
Flammable
Energy converted from the combustion of gasses, liquids, solid chemicals, and vapors.
Chemical
The capacity of a substance to do work or produce heat through a change in its composition. Chemical energy can be converted from gasses, liquids, solid chemicals, and vapors.
Electrical
Energy generated through the conversion of other forms such as mechanical, thermal, or chemical energy. Energy stored between plates of a charged capacitor is an example of potential electrical energy. Typical electrical energy sources include open busbars, motors, and generators.
Thermal
Energy transferred from one body to another as the result of a difference in temperature. Heat flows from the hotter to the cooler body. Sources include mechanical work, radiation, chemical reactions, and electrical resistance.
