Which has more potential energy?

Propane has more potential energy compared to the other options listed. This is primarily attributed to its chemical composition and the energy density it possesses. Propane, being a hydrocarbon (C3H8), releases a significant amount of energy when combusted. This energy is often in the form of heat, making propane an efficient fuel source for heating and cooking.

The potential energy in fuels can be measured in terms of their heating values, which refer to the amount of heat released during combustion. Propane has a higher heating value per unit mass compared to natural gas, coal, and electricity when considering the energy released for the same weight of material burned. This makes propane particularly effective for applications where energy efficiency and density are critical.

Natural gas, while also a high-energy fuel, typically has a lower energy density per unit volume compared to propane. Coal, although a solid fuel with a substantial energy output, often has a lower energy density when compared on a per-mass basis. Electricity, while highly versatile and essential for modern use, does not contain potential energy in the same sense as fuels, as it requires generation from other energy sources, like fossil fuels or renewables, to have inherent energy stored.

In summary, propane stands out for its ability to