Question

coal is a major part of the economy in virginia, and it has many everyday uses. which statement best describes how coal provides energy when burned?
figure 1. burning coal
○ chemical energy is released as thermal energy.
○ mechanical energy is released as electrical energy.
○ electrical energy is released as chemical energy.
○ kinetic energy is released as potential energy.

Explanation:

When coal burns, it undergoes a chemical reaction (combustion) where the chemical energy stored in the coal (due to its molecular structure) is converted and released as thermal energy (heat), which matches the first option's description. The other options describe incorrect energy conversions: mechanical to electrical, electrical to chemical, and kinetic to potential don't align with coal burning.

Answer:

A. Chemical energy is released as thermal energy.