Forms of Energy
Free printable forms of energy diagram — the eight forms of energy (mechanical, heat, light, sound, electrical, chemical, nuclear and gravitational) with icons and labels. Download a high-resolution PDF or PNG for Letter paper.
The forms of energy
Energy is the ability to do work or cause change, and it comes in many different forms. Energy can also change from one form into another. Here is what happens at each labeled part of the diagram:
| Form | What it does |
|---|---|
| Mechanical | The energy of motion and position, like a moving ball or a stretched spring. |
| Heat (thermal) | Energy from the movement of tiny particles; the faster they move, the hotter something is. |
| Light (radiant) | Energy that travels as light and other electromagnetic waves. |
| Sound | Energy carried by vibrations traveling as sound waves. |
| Electrical | Energy from the flow of tiny charged particles called electrons. |
| Chemical | Energy stored in the bonds between atoms, like in food, fuel and batteries. |
| Nuclear | Energy stored in the nucleus of an atom, released in nuclear reactions. |
| Gravitational | Stored energy an object has because of its height above the ground. |
Companion worksheet
A free fill-in worksheet with an answer key, built from the labels above — students match each form to its description, then answer a couple of short questions. Great for a quick check after using the diagram.
How to print
Choose Download PDF for a ready-to-print file that fits US Letter paper (8.5 × 11") in landscape, or Download PNG for the high-resolution image.
Frequently asked questions
What are the main forms of energy?
Mechanical, heat (thermal), light (radiant), sound, electrical, chemical, nuclear and gravitational energy.
Can energy change from one form to another?
Yes. For example, a battery changes chemical energy into electrical energy, and a light bulb changes electrical energy into light and heat.
What paper size should I print this on?
The diagram is sized for standard US Letter paper (8.5 × 11") in landscape orientation. Use "Download PDF" for a print-ready file that fits the page automatically.