what is chemical energy

Chemical energy is the energy stored in the bonds of chemical compounds, such as atoms and molecules. When a chemical reaction takes place, this energy is released and can be transformed into other forms of energy. Chemical energy can be released during an exothermic reaction, often in the form of heat. Examples of stored chemical energy include batteries, food, gasoline, biomass, natural gas, and coal. Chemical potential energy is a form of potential energy related to the structural arrangement of atoms or molecules. Breaking and re-making chemical bonds involves energy, which may be either absorbed by or evolved from a chemical system. The chemical energy in food is converted by the body into mechanical energy and heat. The chemical energy in coal is converted into electrical energy at a power plant. Chemical energy can be converted into electrical energy, as seen in batteries and power plants.