chemical energy

This term refers specifically to the potential energy stored within the molecular bonds of a substance. It is a technical term used primarily in chemistry and physics to describe the capacity of a substance to perform work when those bonds are broken or rearranged during a chemical reaction.

In a practical sense, it is often contrasted with kinetic energy (energy of motion) or thermal energy (heat). Common examples include the energy stored in batteries, food, or fuels like gasoline, where the energy remains latent until triggered by a specific catalyst or reaction.