Question

a baseball held by a pitcher has ____________ energy.
kinetic
chemical
potential
thermal

Explanation:

To determine the energy of the baseball held by the pitcher, we analyze the types of energy:

• Kinetic energy is due to motion; the baseball is held (not moving), so this is incorrect.
• Chemical energy is stored in chemical bonds, not relevant here.
• Potential energy (specifically gravitational potential energy) is stored due to position/height. A held baseball has energy due to its position relative to the ground, so this fits.
• Thermal energy relates to heat, not applicable here.

Answer:

Potential (the option labeled "Potential")