Question

Describe the forms of energy found in an apple as it grows on a tree, then falls, then is digested by someone who eats it.

Short answer

The energy found in apples is chemical potential energy. When it grows on a tree, the energy found in the apple is potential energy, and there is kinetic energy and heat energy involved when it hits the ground. When someone digests an apple, chemical energy and heat energy are involved.

Step-by-step solution

Different forms of energy

Energy is present as either stored form or inactive form. Chemical energy, potential energy, mechanical energy, solar energy, wind energy, etc., are some of the forms in which energy is present. Energy is always transferred from one form to another.

Form of energy found in apple 

The apple tree has several leaves that receive light energy derived from sunlight, which is transformed into the potential chemical energystored in molecules formed in photosynthesis. This energy in molecules is used to synthesize further molecules needed to build branches, leaves, and fruits.

Form of energy found as apple grows on the tree 

When apple fruit is formed in the tree, and when it falls to the ground, the potential energy transforms into kinetic energy, making it fall. Gradually when the apple touches the ground surface, the heat energy is formed by the kinetic energy.

Form of energy found when apple digested by the human

When someone eats apple fruit, the body transforms the chemical energy stored in the apple to fuel the body's muscles and perform other functions. Therefore, the heat produced from the combustion of molecules' kinetic energy is derived from organisms moving and performing locomotion.