The correct answer is option 2: potential energy.
Potential energy is the energy possessed by a body based on its position or shape. It is called potential because it has the potential to be transformed into other forms of energy, such as kinetic energy.
Option 1, thermal energy, refers to the energy associated with the motion of particles within a substance. It is related to temperature and is not directly related to the position or shape of an object.
Option 3, kinetic energy, refers to the energy possessed by a body due to its motion. It is based on the speed and the mass of the object. Although movement can be related to changes in position, it is not specifically tied to changes in position or shape like potential energy.
Option 4, electric energy, refers to the energy associated with the flow of electric charges. It is related to electrical currents and is not directly related to the position or shape of an object.
Therefore, the energy possessed by a body due to its change in position or shape is called potential energy.