Can someone explain the different types of energy in a simplistic way?

Question

These are the types that i need explained to me:

Nuclear
Chemical
Gravitational Potential
Elastic Potential

Can somebody please explain each of these to me using simplistic terms.

Thanks.

Answer 1

Nuclear energy is obtained in two different ways - fission and fusion. When a nucleus splits or two nuclei join (fuse), energy is released. The equation governing the energy released is E = mc^2 where m is the mass (disappears), c is the velocity of light and E is the energy produced. Sun and other stars produce energy through fission and we have nuclear reactors producing electricity using the fission of uranium or plutonium.

Chemical energy is released (or absorbed) in chemical reactions. The burning of coal in oxygen of the air and release of heat is a chemical reaction. Our eating food and staying alive is due to the release of energy in the body by a chemical reaction.

Gravitational potential energy is the energy that is stored in a body by virtue of its height above the earth's surface (how far it is from the centre of gravity). Water drops from the cloud have gravitational potential energy and as they fall, they pick up speed, which is a conversion of potential into kinetic energy. When we jump up, our potential energy goes up and when we fall down, it comes down and is converted into kinetic energy.

Elastic potential energy is due to a spring or a similar elastic body being compressed or stretched. Like a rubber band tries to go back when released after being stretched. When stretched, it has elastic potential energy, which is converted into kinetic energy on release and may power a small toy motor.

Answer 2

You forgot "a two year old"

I'm sorry, you seem like your brain needs a rest. I wish I could help but this is over my head. And it looks like no one else could answer either. Doesn't the internet have simple definitions?