What is potential energy?

Potential energy is defined as the energy stored in an object due to its position or configuration. This energy is associated with the object's potential to perform work as a result of its location within a force field, such as gravity or elastic potential (in springs). For example, a rock placed at the edge of a cliff possesses potential energy because of its elevated position; if it were to fall, that stored energy would convert into kinetic energy as the rock descends.

In contrast, energy of motion describes kinetic energy, which is not what potential energy signifies. Energy generated from heat is related to thermal energy, while energy from chemical reactions pertains to chemical potential energy, but neither of these directly defines the concept of potential energy linked to position. Therefore, the definition that aligns most closely with the correct understanding of potential energy is indeed the energy stored in an object due to its position.