Energy is the ability of matter to move other matter or to produce a chemical change in other matter. Scientists define energy as the ability to do work. Work is defined by scientists as only being done when a force, which is usually a push or a pull, is moved through a distance. Mechanical energy is the form of energy that we see around us. All moving objects produce mechanical energy.
Kinetic energy is the energy of motion.
Potential energy is the energy that a substance or object has because of its condition or position. Potential is also called stored up energy. When potential energy is set free, it is changed into kinetic energy. This activity illustrates potential and kinetic energy. To establish potential energy, you must first establish the conditions of the situation for energy.