What type of energy is stored due to the position or shape of an object?

Potential energy is the type of energy that is stored due to the position or shape of an object. This form of energy comes from the position of an object relative to other objects, such as when an object is lifted to a height in a gravitational field. For example, a book on a shelf has gravitational potential energy due to its elevated position. Similarly, a compressed spring or a stretched rubber band possesses potential energy based on its shape.

Potential energy can be converted into kinetic energy when the object is allowed to move. For instance, if the book falls from the shelf, its potential energy is transformed into kinetic energy as it speeds up towards the ground. This concept illustrates the relationship between potential energy and the energy of motion.

Other types of energy mentioned have distinct characteristics. Kinetic energy is associated with the motion of an object, whereas mechanical energy combines both potential and kinetic energy in a system. Radiant energy refers to energy carried by electromagnetic waves, such as light. Understanding these differences helps clarify why potential energy specifically describes energy stored due to position or shape.