Energy can be defined as what?

Energy is fundamentally understood as the capacity to do work, which encompasses various forms, including heat, light, and mechanical energy. When stating that energy is a measurable quantity of heat, work, or light, it captures the essence of energy in a broad and inclusive manner. This definition aligns with the scientific perspective of energy being quantifiable and able to perform tasks or cause changes within a system.

In contrast to the other choices, which provide more specific or limited definitions, focusing solely on one aspect of energy, such as residential consumption or specific resources for heating, the correct definition acknowledges the multifaceted nature of energy itself. This understanding is essential in fields like building analysis, where considering all forms of energy is vital for comprehensive evaluations of energy use and efficiency. Thus, recognizing energy as a measurable quantity of heat, work, or light is critical for effectively analyzing and addressing issues related to energy consumption and efficiency in buildings.