Energy due to position — what is it called? In classical mechanics, the energy a body possesses solely by virtue of its position or configuration (for example, a mass held at a height, a compressed spring, or a stretched elastic band) is known as:

Introduction / Context:
This item checks your understanding of the two fundamental mechanical energy forms—potential and kinetic—and asks you to name the energy stored due to position or configuration. Recognizing this helps in solving problems using the work–energy principle, conservation of mechanical energy, and in real-world systems such as dams, cranes, and springs.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• No numbers are needed; this is a concept recall question.
• Examples include a mass at height h, a compressed spring, or a charged object in an electric field.
• Neglect dissipative effects (air resistance, friction) for the conceptual definition.

Concept / Approach:
Mechanical energy appears mainly as potential energy (energy stored due to position/configuration) and kinetic energy (energy of motion). Gravitational potential energy of a mass m at height h (relative to a reference level) is m * g * h. Elastic potential energy in a spring compressed or stretched by x is (1/2) * k * x^2. These forms are available to do work when the system is released and allowed to move toward a lower-energy configuration.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Identify what the stem asks: energy “by virtue of position.”Recall definitions: potential energy (position/configuration), kinetic energy (motion).Match to examples: mass at height, compressed spring ⇒ potential energy.Therefore, the correct term is potential energy.

Verification / Alternative check:
If the body is released, potential energy converts to kinetic energy as it moves (e.g., falling mass). This conversion validates that the stored energy was indeed potential energy poised to perform work.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Kinetic energy: depends on velocity, not position.
• Electrical energy: field-specific; the stem is generic mechanics.
• Chemical energy: stored in molecular bonds, not the body’s mechanical position.

Common Pitfalls:

• Confusing “stored” energy in a moving object as potential; moving objects possess kinetic energy.
• Forgetting that configuration (elastic deformation) is also a “position” effect.

Final Answer:
potential energy