What is thermal energy?

a. the transfer of chemical energy between molecules
b. the difference in potential energy between two states
c. the average kinetic energy of molecules in a system
d. the total kinetic energy contained in a system

hurricanes form when warm, moist air from the ocean surface quickly rises into the atmosphere and forms storm clouds and rain. when the clouds are formed, heat is released which warms the cool air in the upper regions of the atmosphere so that the cycle can continue. which two phases of the water cycle are repeated in this process?