1910–1911
Britannica 11th
Encyclopaedia Britannica · 11th edition
ENERGY (from the Gr. tvlpytia; kv, in, tpyov, work), in physical science, a term which may be defined as accumulated mechanical work, which, however, may be only partially available for use. A bent spring possesses energy, for it is capable of doing work in returning to its natural form ; a charge of gunpowder possesses energy, for it is capable of doing work in exploding; aLeyden jar charged with electricity possesses energy, for it is capable of doing work in being discharged. The motions of bodies, or of the ult…
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- Vol. 9, pp. 398-405