What is potential energy best described as?

Potential energy is best described as stored energy. This refers to energy that has the capacity to do work in the future, even though it may not be actively doing so at the moment. Potential energy is often associated with an object’s position or condition, such as a rock held at a height or water stored in a dam. When these systems are allowed to move or change state, the stored energy can be converted into kinetic energy, which is the energy of motion.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately reflect the nature of potential energy. Describing it as active energy in motion refers to kinetic energy rather than potential energy. The concept of energy that cannot be utilized doesn't align with potential energy, as it is indeed available to be converted into usable forms. Lastly, energy released during an explosion relates to kinetic energy and the rapid release of stored chemical potential energy, which is a different concept altogether. Thus, the characterization of potential energy as stored energy is both accurate and essential in understanding its role in various physical systems.