Potential energy is the energy a system possesses because of its position or its stored configuration, such as the energy stored in chemical bonds. It can be released or converted into other forms when the configuration changes. It contrasts with kinetic energy, which is the energy of motion.

势能是系统因其位置或储存的构型而具有的能量,如储存在化学键中的能量。当构型改变时,它可被释放或转化为其他形式。它与动能相对,动能是运动的能量。