What is the potential energy stored in the nucleus of an atom called?

The potential energy stored in the nucleus of an atom is called nuclear energy. This energy arises from the forces that bind protons and neutrons together within the nucleus. These strong nuclear forces are what hold the nucleus intact, and the energy associated with these bonds is considerable. When these bonds are broken (as in nuclear fission) or when smaller nuclei come together to form a larger nucleus (as in nuclear fusion), energy is released, which is also harnessed in nuclear power plants and atomic bombs.

In contrast, chemical energy refers to the energy stored in the bonds of chemical compounds and is released or absorbed during chemical reactions, while thermal energy relates to the heat energy content of materials. Gravitational energy is the energy associated with an object's position in a gravitational field. Thus, nuclear energy specifically pertains to the energy potential within the atomic nucleus itself.