Convert calories to joules
Enter the value to convert from calorie to joule.
How to Convert Calorie to Joule
Converting calorie to joule is straightforward using our conversion calculator.
Conversion Formula
J = cal × 4.184Reverse conversion: Convert joules to calories
Comparison: Calorie vs Joule
When to Use Each Unit
Calorie: Used in chemistry, thermodynamics, and scientific applications. Largely replaced by joule in most scientific contexts.
Joule: Universal scientific unit for all forms of energy: mechanical, electrical, thermal, chemical, and nuclear energy worldwide.
Common Conversion Values
- 1 cal ≈ 4.184 J
- 1000 cal = 1 kcal
- 1 cal ≈ 0.00397 BTU
- 1 cal ≈ 0.004184 kJ
About Calorie
Definition: The calorie (symbol: cal) is the energy needed to raise the temperature of one gram of water by one degree Celsius.
History: Defined in 1824 by Nicolas Clément. Originally based on water's specific heat capacity before joule equivalence was established.
Current Use: Used in chemistry, thermodynamics, and scientific applications. Largely replaced by joule in most scientific contexts.
Examples: Chemical reactions: cal/mol, laboratory heating: cal/g, thermodynamic calculations, heat capacity measurements
About Joule
Definition: The joule (symbol: J) is the SI unit of energy, equal to the energy expended when applying one newton of force through one meter of distance.
History: Named after English physicist James Prescott Joule in 1889. Established the mechanical equivalent of heat and energy conservation.
Current Use: Universal scientific unit for all forms of energy: mechanical, electrical, thermal, chemical, and nuclear energy worldwide.
Examples: Apple: 350,000 J, car battery: 4.3 MJ, lightning bolt: 1-5 billion J, human daily intake: 8-10 MJ