chemical energy
Definition
Chemical energy is a form of potential energy stored in the bonds of chemical compounds, such as molecules and atoms. This energy is released or absorbed during chemical reactions when these bonds are formed or broken.
Analogy
Imagine a roller coaster at the top of its track; this is like chemical energy stored in molecular bonds. Just as the roller coaster has potential to rush down with kinetic energy, molecules have the potential to release energy when their bonds are broken during a reaction.
Related terms
ATP (Adenosine Triphosphate): ATP is a high-energy molecule used by cells as a direct source of energy for various cellular processes.
Metabolism: Metabolism is the set of life-sustaining chemical reactions in organisms that allow them to grow, reproduce, maintain their structures, and respond to their environments.
Enzyme: An enzyme is a protein that acts as a catalyst to speed up chemical reactions in biological processes without being consumed by the reaction itself
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