Joule Converter
Convert Joule to Therm Us and more • 50 conversions
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Unit Explanations
JouleJ
Source UnitThe joule (symbol: J) is the standard unit of energy in the International System of Units (SI). It is defined as the energy transferred when a force of one newton is applied over a distance of one meter. Mathematically, one joule is equivalent to one newton-meter (N·m) or one watt-second (W·s). In terms of electrical energy, one joule is also defined as the energy dissipated as heat when an electric current of one ampere passes through a resistance of one ohm for one second. The joule is named after the English physicist James Prescott Joule, who made significant contributions to thermodynamics and the understanding of energy conservation.
Current Use
The joule is widely used in multiple scientific and engineering disciplines to quantify energy, work, and heat. In physics, it serves as a fundamental measure for energy transfer, particularly in mechanics and thermodynamics. Engineers use joules to calculate energy efficiency in machinery and electricity consumption. In nutrition, energy content in food is often expressed in joules or kilojoules, allowing for a clear understanding of energy intake. The joule is also used in international standards for energy efficiency, such as those set by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). Countries that employ the SI system, including the UK, Canada, Australia, and most European nations, utilize the joule as the standard unit for energy measurement, ensuring consistency in scientific communication and research.
Fun Fact
The joule can also be defined in terms of calories, where 1 joule is approximately 0.239 calories.
Therm (US)thm
Target UnitThe therm (symbol: thm) is a unit of heat energy traditionally used in the United States, particularly in the natural gas industry. It is defined as equivalent to 100,000 British thermal units (BTUs), which is the amount of heat required to raise the temperature of one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit. The therm is commonly utilized in residential heating and energy billing, providing a standardized measurement for energy consumption. As an energy measurement, it plays a significant role in energy economics and environmental discussions, particularly regarding the efficiency of heating systems. The therm enables clear communication and comparison of energy usage across different contexts, making it an essential unit in energy management.
Current Use
Today, the therm is primarily used within the United States for measuring natural gas consumption, particularly for residential heating. Utility companies often bill customers based on the number of therms consumed, making it a practical unit for household energy management. In addition to residential use, the therm is also employed in various industrial applications, including the manufacturing of heat-related products and processes that require precise energy calculations. The therm is frequently referenced in energy policy discussions, especially in relation to energy efficiency standards and regulations. As the world shifts toward cleaner energy solutions, the therm remains a critical unit for evaluating heating efficiency and emissions in both urban and rural settings.
Fun Fact
The therm is often used in conjunction with the British thermal unit (BTU), where 1 therm equals 100,000 BTUs.
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= × 1.00000How to Convert
To convert to , multiply the value by 1.00000. This conversion factor represents the ratio between these two units.
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Joule
energy • SI Unit
Definition
The joule (symbol: J) is the standard unit of energy in the International System of Units (SI). It is defined as the energy transferred when a force of one newton is applied over a distance of one meter. Mathematically, one joule is equivalent to one newton-meter (N·m) or one watt-second (W·s). In terms of electrical energy, one joule is also defined as the energy dissipated as heat when an electric current of one ampere passes through a resistance of one ohm for one second. The joule is named after the English physicist James Prescott Joule, who made significant contributions to thermodynamics and the understanding of energy conservation.
History & Origin
The joule was named after James Prescott Joule, an English physicist known for his pioneering work on the mechanical equivalent of heat and the first law of thermodynamics. Joule's experiments in the mid-19th century demonstrated the relationship between mechanical work and heat, leading to the establishment of the principle of energy conservation. His work laid the foundation for the study of thermodynamics and energy transfer, which ultimately influenced the definition of the joule as a unit of energy.
Etymology: The term 'joule' is derived from the name of James Prescott Joule, reflecting his significant contributions to the understanding of energy and thermodynamics.
Current Use
The joule is widely used in multiple scientific and engineering disciplines to quantify energy, work, and heat. In physics, it serves as a fundamental measure for energy transfer, particularly in mechanics and thermodynamics. Engineers use joules to calculate energy efficiency in machinery and electricity consumption. In nutrition, energy content in food is often expressed in joules or kilojoules, allowing for a clear understanding of energy intake. The joule is also used in international standards for energy efficiency, such as those set by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). Countries that employ the SI system, including the UK, Canada, Australia, and most European nations, utilize the joule as the standard unit for energy measurement, ensuring consistency in scientific communication and research.
💡 Fun Facts
- •The joule can also be defined in terms of calories, where 1 joule is approximately 0.239 calories.
- •James Prescott Joule, for whom the unit is named, was also a brewer and applied his knowledge of energy to measure heat in brewing.
- •In some contexts, the joule is used to measure the energy content of food as kilojoules (kJ), making it essential for dietary guidelines.
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Therm (US)
energy • Non-SI
Definition
The therm (symbol: thm) is a unit of heat energy traditionally used in the United States, particularly in the natural gas industry. It is defined as equivalent to 100,000 British thermal units (BTUs), which is the amount of heat required to raise the temperature of one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit. The therm is commonly utilized in residential heating and energy billing, providing a standardized measurement for energy consumption. As an energy measurement, it plays a significant role in energy economics and environmental discussions, particularly regarding the efficiency of heating systems. The therm enables clear communication and comparison of energy usage across different contexts, making it an essential unit in energy management.
History & Origin
The therm originated from the need to quantify heat energy in a standardized way during the late 19th century. The term 'therm' was introduced in the context of the natural gas industry, where accurate measurement of heat output became essential for billing and energy management. Early thermometers and calorimeters laid the groundwork for the therm's acceptance as a practical unit, as industrial processes demanded reliable measures of energy. The therm became increasingly popular in the United States as natural gas distribution expanded, providing a consistent unit for energy suppliers and consumers alike.
Etymology: The word 'therm' is derived from the Greek word 'thermos,' meaning heat.
Current Use
Today, the therm is primarily used within the United States for measuring natural gas consumption, particularly for residential heating. Utility companies often bill customers based on the number of therms consumed, making it a practical unit for household energy management. In addition to residential use, the therm is also employed in various industrial applications, including the manufacturing of heat-related products and processes that require precise energy calculations. The therm is frequently referenced in energy policy discussions, especially in relation to energy efficiency standards and regulations. As the world shifts toward cleaner energy solutions, the therm remains a critical unit for evaluating heating efficiency and emissions in both urban and rural settings.
💡 Fun Facts
- •The therm is often used in conjunction with the British thermal unit (BTU), where 1 therm equals 100,000 BTUs.
- •Natural gas is primarily measured in therms in the United States, making it a key unit for energy efficiency discussions.
- •The therm is not officially recognized by the International System of Units (SI), but it is widely accepted in the energy industry.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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