Difference between kinetic energy and potential energy Kinetic energy is the energy of motion. Think of a moving train, a wave crashing, or a gymnast flipping. It is the energy an object has due to its motion. For example, when you toss a ball, it has kinetic energy as it moves through the air. Potential energy, on the other hand, is stored energy waiting to be used. Think of a stretched rubber band, a ball held high in the air, or water in a dam above a waterfall. These items have potential energy because of their state. For instance, water behind a dam above a waterfall has potential energy due to its restraint and height above the ground. How to calculate total energy content in a food item To calculate total energy in a peanut butter and jelly sandwich, first you need to find the nutritional content of each ingredient