Chemical energy is stored in the links between the atoms.

Chemical energy is a form of potential energy that is stored in the bonds between atoms and molecules. It is the energy that is released or absorbed during a chemical reaction.

Explanation:
Chemical energy is a type of potential energy that is stored in the links between the atoms of a substance. This energy is a result of the arrangement and bonding of atoms within a molecule. It is stored in the form of chemical bonds, which are the attractive forces that hold atoms together.

When atoms come together to form a molecule, they can share electrons or transfer them to create a stable configuration. The energy required to form these chemical bonds is stored in the bonds themselves. This energy can be released or absorbed during a chemical reaction.

When a chemical reaction takes place, the bonds between atoms are broken and new bonds are formed. This process involves the rearrangement of atoms and the redistribution of electrons. The energy that was stored in the bonds of the reactant molecules is either released or absorbed as the bonds are broken and formed.

For example, when gasoline burns, the carbon and hydrogen atoms in the fuel react with oxygen to form carbon dioxide and water. The bonds between the carbon and hydrogen atoms in gasoline are broken, and new bonds are formed between the carbon and oxygen atoms. The energy that was stored in the bonds of the gasoline molecules is released as heat and light energy during the combustion process.

Overall, chemical energy is a crucial form of energy storage in nature. It plays a significant role in various biological and chemical processes, including metabolism, photosynthesis, and combustion.