Convert joules to calories
Enter the value to convert from joule to calorie.
How to Convert Joule to Calorie
Converting joule to calorie is straightforward using our conversion calculator.
Conversion Formula
cal = J ÷ 4.184Reverse conversion: Convert calories to joules
Comparison: Joule vs Calorie
When to Use Each Unit
Joule: Universal scientific unit for all forms of energy: mechanical, electrical, thermal, chemical, and nuclear energy worldwide.
Calorie: Used in chemistry, thermodynamics, and scientific applications. Largely replaced by joule in most scientific contexts.
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 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