What is thermal energy in chemistry?

Thermal energy in the context of chemistry refers to the energy associated with the temperature of a substance. This energy arises from the kinetic energy of the molecules or atoms within that substance. As the temperature of a substance increases, the particles move more rapidly, which in turn increases the thermal energy. This concept is fundamental in understanding heat transfer, phase changes, and the behavior of substances under various temperature conditions.

The other options do not accurately define thermal energy. Energy due to the motion of electrons in an atom pertains more to electrical or atomic energy rather than thermal energy. The energy used during a chemical reaction relates to various types of energy, including thermal, but does not specifically capture the essence of what thermal energy is. Lastly, energy stored due to chemical bonds relates to potential energy within a molecule rather than the kinetic energy associated with temperature changes. Understanding thermal energy is essential for studying thermodynamics and its applications in chemical reactions and processes.