potential energy

energy /en·er·gy/ (en´er-je) power which may be translated into motion, overcoming resistance, or effecting physical change; the ability to do work. Symbol E.

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free energy , Gibbs free energy (G ) that equal to the maximum amount of work that can be obtained from a process occurring under conditions of fixed temperature and pressure.

kinetic energy  the energy of motion.

nuclear energy  energy that can be liberated by changes in the nucleus of an atom (as by fission of a heavy nucleus or fusion of light nuclei into heavier ones with accompanying loss of mass).

potential energy  energy at rest or not manifested in actual work.

vital energy  see under force.

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potential energy

n.

The energy that exists in a body as a result of its position or condition rather than of its motion.

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potential energy

Etymology: L, potentia, power; Gk, energeia

the energy contained in a body as a result of its position in space, internal structure, and stresses imposed on it. Also called latent energy.