Kinetic energy is energy in an object because of its motion. For example, a rubber band that is stretched has elastic potential energy, because when released, the rubber band will spring back toward its resting state, transferring the potential energy to kinetic energy in the process. When a spring is coiled up or a rubber band is stretched, mechanical energy is stored in it. When the spring uncoils or the rubber band snaps back, this energy is released. This stored mechanical energy is called potential energy because it has the potential to make things happen.
