Here Are 45+ Interesting Chemical Energy Examples For Kids

Nidhi Sahai
Nov 01, 2022 By Nidhi Sahai
Originally Published on Jan 12, 2022
Fact-checked by Vikhaash Sundararaj
info_i
Enjoy these chemical energy examples for kids.

The energy released during a chemical reaction is chemical energy.

Chemical energy is a form of potential energy. It gets stored in bonds that connect other molecules to the molecules of chemical compounds.

Chemical energy is the most important energy for the existence of human beings in the natural world. Kinetic energy, light energy, and electrical energy are all the outcomes of a chemical reaction happening. Natural gas is made of the compounds carbon and hydrogen.

The substance which is involved in a chemical reaction will change into a new substance because its properties will change.

What Is Chemical Energy?

Chemical energy is just another form of energy that gets stored in bonds between molecules and atoms.

  • Atoms are the fundamental building blocks of matter. They get combined with various other atoms and form a molecule. It is chemical energy that holds the atoms in molecules together. This energy also holds a substance's molecules together.
  • Chemical reactions occur when bonds are formed or broken between atoms. Chemical reactions are just processes during which substances are converted into various other substances.
  • In reactions, the starting atoms of substances get rearranged. When a new arrangement is formed, a new substance is also formed, with the same atoms taking on various different properties.
  • In chemical reactions, energy plays a very important role. The breaking of bonds and forming of bonds both require energy. Heat energy gets released when bonds are formed, and it is often used to break bonds as well.

Examples Of Chemical Energy

Here are some examples of chemical energy.

  • Combustion. This process is used to obtain a huge part of the energy on which electricity and cars run.
  • Synthesis. This energy is given off on the coming together of two or more simple substances that form another complex substance.
  • Simple scrolling is when an atom of a particular substance gets transferred to another substance.
  • A double shift is when atoms of two different substances get exchanged.
  • Decomposition is when a complex substance degrades to a simple one.
Learning about chemical energy can be very important

Applications Of Chemical Energy

Chemical energy is a type of potential energy that is only visible when released in a chemical process. Chemical energy, which is also contained in atoms and ions, is the energy of chemical bonds.

  • When we mix vinegar and baking soda, carbon dioxide will be created. This gas gradually grows in volume and fills a container, increasing the pressure, which has a volcanic effect when it erupts.
  • A vinegar and baking soda activity is a great science experiment for students to use to understand the concepts of pressure and chemical reactions.
  • In batteries, the two terminals (anodes and cathodes) are separated by an electrolyte. When we connect something to the battery, chemical reactions start to take place and will produce electrical energy.
  • In explosives, chemical energy gets converted into kinetic energy, sound energy, and thermal energy. It is not always the case that if chemical energy is released, an explosion will occur.
  • When food is digested, and the molecules of food are broken down into smaller pieces, chemical energy is generated. In the stomach, food is mixed with acids and enzymes to digest it.
  • When ammonia and bleach are combined, a chemical reaction occurs. Chloramine vapor is formed when toxic fumes are inhaled. This can produce hydrazine, which can result in edema, headaches, nausea, and convulsions.
  • Petroleum is a mixture of natural gas and oil made up of hundreds of hydrogen and carbon-containing molecules. When petroleum is in the form of a vapor, it is referred to as natural gas. When petroleum is in the form of a liquid, it is referred to as crude oil. The energy is then extracted by burning it and using it to power cars, heat homes, and other things.
  • When wood dries, it retains chemical energy. As wood burns, this chemical energy is liberated and turned into heat or thermal energy. This generates light energy as well. When wood is burned, it transforms into ashes, a completely different substance.

Fun Facts About Chemical Energy For Kids

A material or item stores chemical energy until it undergoes a chemical reaction. Chemical energy is used by our bodies to carry out daily operations.

  • Chemical energy is emitted in the form of heat energy or thermal energy. Heat energy is released during an exothermic reaction.
  • When plants use sunlight to create their own nourishment (photosynthesis), they undergo a chemical reaction.
  • One very good example of the release of chemical energy in the process of cooking.
  • There are six types of chemical reactions: synthesis, combustion, decomposition, single displacement, acid-base, and double displacement.
  • When oxygen reacts with other chemicals to generate carbon dioxide and water, chemical energy is released in the form of heat.
  • Synthesis is the process of combining two simple molecules to create a more complex substance during one chemical reaction.
  • Chemical energy is used to generate electrical energy. Natural gas is an example of stored chemical energy. Chemical energy gets converted into electrical power at a power plant. Light energy, or the radiant energy of the sun, is also the result of chemical energy.

We Want Your Photos!
We Want Your Photos!

We Want Your Photos!

Do you have a photo you are happy to share that would improve this article?
Email your photos

More for You

See All

Written by Nidhi Sahai

Bachelor of Arts in Journalism and Mass Communication

Nidhi Sahai picture

Nidhi SahaiBachelor of Arts in Journalism and Mass Communication

Dedicated and experienced, Nidhi is a professional content writer with a strong reputation for delivering high-quality work. She has contributed her expertise to esteemed organizations, including Network 18 Media and Investment Ltd. Driven by her insatiable curiosity and love for journalism and mass communication, Nidhi pursued a Bachelor of Arts degree from Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University, graduating with distinction in 2021. During her college years, she discovered her passion for Video Journalism, showcasing her skills as a videographer for her institution. Nidhi's commitment to making a positive impact extends beyond her professional pursuits. Actively engaging in volunteer work, she has contributed to various events and initiatives throughout her academic career.

Read full bio >
Fact-checked by Vikhaash Sundararaj

Bachelor of Fine Arts specializing in International Business

Vikhaash Sundararaj picture

Vikhaash SundararajBachelor of Fine Arts specializing in International Business

With a background in International Business Management, having completed his degree at the University of Hull. Vikhaash has volunteered with 'Teach For India' to help students create a monthly newsletter. In his free time, he enjoys sports and was the assistant captain of his school's hockey team. He has also gained marketing experience through an internship at Decathlon Sports India.

Read full bio >