What Is Energy?

  • Energy is something that makes a change. Making a change is called "doing work."
    • Scientists define energy this way:  Energy is the ability to do work.
    • The total amount of energy in the universe always has been and always will be the same.
Colored lightbulbs
Energy comes in many different forms.
  • Energy has many different forms. These are the most common:
    • Solar energy
    • Heat energy
    • Light energy
    • Radiant energy
    • Chemical energy
    • Mechanical energy
    • Magnetic energy
    • Electrical energy
    • Nuclear energy
  • Energy can be transferred, but it cannot be created or destroyed.
    • When energy is used, it changes from one form of energy to another.
      • Example: When coal is burned, its energy is changed into heat and light.