There are multiple types of energy. Theres thermal, mechanical, hydro powered, kinetic, potential, and the list goes on. Thermal energy is the total kinetic energy of particles. Thermal means heat, so thermal energy deals with heat. Thermal energy also relies off of the number of particles. The more particles that are in something, the more thermal energy can be present. Thermal energy works by accelerating the particles within something and the friction caused by the particles produces an exothermic reaction producing heat or thermal energy. When the particles move faster they also move apart. This is called thermal expansion. Thermal expansion is the increase in volume that results from the increase of temperature.
Mechanical energy is the sum of potential and kinetic energy in a system, representing the energy associated with the motion and position of an object. Potential energy is stored energy based on an object’s height or configuration, while kinetic energy is the energy of motion, dependent on the mass and velocity of the object. This form of energy is crucial in various applications, from simple machines to complex mechanical systems, as it enables work to be done and facilitates movement. Understanding mechanical energy is essential in fields such as engineering and physics, where it plays a vital role in analyzing and designing systems that harness or convert energy efficiently.