Convert Joule (J) (j) to Calorie (cal) (cal)
Category: Energy
1 j = 0.239006 cal
High-precision rounding: 6 decimals
How to convert joule (j) to calorie (cal)
We convert by pivoting through the SI base unit for Energy and applying exact factors where applicable.
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Quick conversion table
Handy values for Joule (J) → Calorie (cal). Click a value to open that exact result.
Conversion formula
Linear unit conversions use standardized factors; many are exact by definition (e.g., 1 in = 25.4 mm, 1 ft = 0.3048 m).
Common mistakes
- Confusing calorie (cal) with kilocalorie (kcal) on nutrition labels.
- Treating BTU definitions interchangeably without noting standard (IT vs other).
Unit facts
- Joule (J): Joule (J) is the SI unit of energy: 1 J = 1 N·m = 1 kg·m²/s².
- Calorie (cal): A small calorie (cal) heats 1 g of water by 1 °C; nutrition ‘Calorie’ means kilocalorie (kcal).
About Energy
Energy is the capacity to do work. Joules form the SI base; Wh/kWh align with metering and batteries; calories and BTU survive in nutrition and HVAC. Conversions bridge mechanical, thermal, and electrical perspectives.
About Joule (J)
Joule (J)
SI energy unit equal to N·m. Fundamental in physics, electronics (J = W·s), and thermodynamics.
History: Named after James P. Joule. Became universal with SI coherence across mechanical and electrical domains.
About Calorie (cal)
Calorie (cal)
Energy to raise 1 g of water by 1 °C; several legacy variants exist. In nutrition, ‘calorie’ often means kilocalorie.
History: Thermochemistry used multiple definitions; modern practice relates calories to joules (1 cal ≈ 4.184 J).
Related conversions from j
Related conversions to cal
- btu → cal BTU (IT)
- kcal → cal Kilocalorie (kcal)
- kwh → cal Kilowatt-hour (kWh)
- wh → cal Watt-hour (Wh)