When an object is moving, it is said to possess kinetic energy. Another less conspicuous form of energy is potential energy. Potential energy refers to energy stored in an object by dint of its position, shape or chemical composition. In other words, such an object has a potential to do work in a certain way.

Forms of Potential Energy

Potential energy can be stored in an object in several ways; there are different forms of potential energy:

Positional Potential Energy

If a stone placed on top of a hill is allowed to roll down, it travels down at great speed; the stone has a potential to move down fast due to its position at high altitude, this form of stored potential energy is called positional potential energy. In this case, the potential energy of the stone has been converted into kinetic energy.

In the same way, a person standing at top floor of a building possesses more positional potential energy compared to someone standing at ground floor.

Mechanical Potential Energy

Mechanical potential energy, sometimes also called elastic potential energy, is the energy stored in an object due to a change in shape. A common example is a stretched bow string which stores elastic potential energy as a result of change in its shape; upon subsequent release of the arrow, the bow string returns to its original shape converting its potential energy into kinetic energy of the arrow.

Chemical Potential Energy

A well-known example of storing chemical potential energy is energy storage in electrochemical batteries. Upon requirement, these batteries can convert stored chemical energy into electricity; batteries have a potential to perform work in a certain way at a desired time.

Another interesting example of chemical potential energy involves insects called glow-worms. Many people know that the females of these insects are capable of flashing their tales to attract their males at night. They can do so due to their ability to store certain chemicals (Luciferin and Luciferase) in their abdomens; when they glow their tales, the chemical energy of these chemicals is converted into light. 

Nuclear Potential Energy

The breakdown of certain radioactive nuclei releases immense amounts of energy in the form of light and heat; the release of energy from the splitting of nucleus is indicative of a definite form of energy potential, the energy stored in atomic nuclei is called nuclear potential energy.

Electrical Potential Energy

When thunderclouds rumble, the ice-crystals and water droplets present in clouds jostle. As a result, static electricity is stored in thundercloud; which releases subsequently in the form of a lightning bolt. This form of potential energy is called electrical potential energy.