What is the difference between kinetic and potential energy? what is the difference between kinetic and potential energy? kinetic energy is stored energy and has the capacity to do work; potential energy is expressed through motion. kinetic energy may eventually become potential energy, but potential energy cannot become kinetic energy. kinetic energy and potential energy are synonymous; they are defined as the capacity to do work, actively putting matter into motion. kinetic energy is energy in action, while potential energy is stored energy?