Convert joule to british thermal unit
Enter the value to convert from joule to british thermal unit.
How to Convert Joule to British thermal unit
Converting joule to british thermal unit is straightforward using our conversion calculator.
Conversion Formula
BTU = J ÷ 1055.05585262Reverse conversion: Convert btu to joules
Comparison: Joule vs British-thermal-unit
When to Use Each Unit
Joule: Universal scientific unit for all forms of energy: mechanical, electrical, thermal, chemical, and nuclear energy worldwide.
British-thermal-unit: Used in United States for heating, air conditioning, energy content of fuels, and HVAC system ratings.
Common Conversion Values
- 1000 J = 1 kJ
- 1 J ≈ 0.239 cal
- 3,600,000 J = 1 kWh
- 1 J ≈ 0.738 ft⋅lbf
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
About British
Definition: The British thermal unit (BTU) is the energy needed to raise one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit.
History: Developed in the 19th century for steam engines and heating systems. Standard unit in British imperial system.
Current Use: Used in United States for heating, air conditioning, energy content of fuels, and HVAC system ratings.
Examples: Natural gas: 1000 BTU/ft³, furnace output: 80,000 BTU/h, air conditioner: 12,000 BTU/h, propane: 21,500 BTU/lb