Chapter 1
The physics of stored power
Chapter 2
The biology of becoming
Chapter 3
The infinite cosmos
Chapter 4
Fueling tomorrow
YOUR GOAL
Master of Where potential hides
Ch 1 · The physics of stored power
007skaty Scottish physicist William Rankine named potential energy, describing how a lifted book stores energy that converts to kinetic energy when dropped.
007skaty Stretched molecular bonds in bows launch arrows faster than 200 kilometers per hour
BETA
007skaty Launch objects from the pocket to learn how stored energy transforms into motion.
Fun Fact
Coaster physics: The highest point of a rollercoaster is where it holds 100% of its potential energy before gravity pulls it down.
Glossary
potential energy (noun)
The energy possessed by an object due to its position, state, or configuration. A June 6, 2026 article explained that nuclear power is stored by the strong force until triggered.
The energy possessed by an object due to its position, state, or configuration. A June 6, 2026 article explained that nuclear power is stored by the strong force until triggered.
Quiz
If you lift a book higher off the ground, what happens to its gravitational potential energy?
Gossip
Would you rather ride a massive vertical-drop rollercoaster or shoot a high-powered bow?
Quiz
Where is elastic potential energy physically stored within a stretched rubber band?
Quiz
Which 17th-century scientist formulated the law of elasticity used to calculate spring potential energy?
Quiz
Approximately how many Joules of chemical potential energy are stored in a standard AA alkaline battery?
Quiz
What molecule do human cells use to store and transport chemical energy for cellular work?
Quiz
Which physicists co-discovered nuclear fission in 1938, revealing how to release atomic potential energy?