What form of energy does a stretched rubber band possess?

A stretched rubber band possesses potential energy due to the configuration of its molecules when it is deformed. This form of energy is known as elastic potential energy, which is stored in the rubber band while it is stretched. When you stretch the rubber band, you do work on it, and the energy from this work is stored as potential energy in the stored deformation of the band.

When the rubber band is released, this stored potential energy is converted into kinetic energy as it returns to its original shape and snaps back, causing it to move. Therefore, while the rubber band does also produce kinetic energy when released, the question specifically asks about the energy it possesses in the stretched state, which is potential energy.

This understanding is crucial, as it illustrates the principle of energy transformation; energy stored in an object can be converted into another form when that object is allowed to return to its original state.