Question

Why is lattice energy considered to be potential energy?

Answer 1

Potential energy is the energy that is associated with the work related to an object's potential. Lattice energy is the amount of energy released when an ionic solid is formed from ionic ions. As the work is done when the ions combine to form an ionic solid. Thus, these are related to each other.

Complete answer:
Energy has to be supplied to any object or system to do work. Even humans also need energy to do any work. There were mainly two types of energy like kinetic energy, and potential energy.
Potential energy is defined as the energy that is associated with the work related to an object's potential.
Ionic compounds are the compounds that are composed of electronegativity differences between the atoms in that molecule. When ions combine to form an ionic solid, the energy must be supplied to the ions. The amount of heat energy given is not totally converted into work. Some amount will be released. This released energy is known as lattice energy.
As the lattice energy is released when the ions like cations and anions are closer to form an ionic solid which means released when work is done. The definition of potential energy also describes it as the energy associated with work done.

Thus, lattice energy is considered to be potential energy.

Note:
Ions are formed when the element gains or loses electrons. Ions have two types of charges like positive, and negative. These opposite charges will attract each other and lead to the formation of ionic compounds. As the lattice of ions will change when the ions form an ionic compound, which leads to the releasing of lattice energy.