Convert calories to joules
Convert calories to joules by entering a value below.
How to Convert Calories to Joules
The calorie and joule are both units of energy. 1 calorie equals 4.184 joules. This means to convert calories to joules, you multiply by 4.184.
Formula
Step-by-Step Example
Convert 5 cal to joules:
We need to convert calories to joules
Since 1 cal = 4.184 J, multiply by 4.184
5 × 4.184 = 20.92
5 cal = 20.92 J
Calorie to Joule Conversion Table
Quick reference table for common calorie to joule conversions. Click any value for detailed calculation.
| Calories (cal) | Joules (J) |
|---|---|
| 1 cal | 4.184 J |
| 2 cal | 8.368 J |
| 5 cal | 20.92 J |
| 10 cal | 41.84 J |
| 15 cal | 62.76 J |
| 20 cal | 83.68 J |
| 25 cal | 104.6 J |
| 50 cal | 209.2 J |
| 100 cal | 418.4 J |
About These Units
Calorie (cal)
A small calorie (cal) is the energy needed to raise 1 gram of water by 1°C, equal to 4.184 joules. Small calories are used in chemistry and physics. Note: food "Calories" (with capital C) are actually kilocalories. One calorie equals 0.003968 BTU.
Joule (J)
The joule (J) is the SI unit of energy equal to one watt-second or one newton-meter. Joules measure work, heat, and electrical energy. One joule equals approximately 0.239 calories. Lifting a 100g apple one meter requires about 1 joule. Named after physicist James Prescott Joule.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I convert calories to joules?
To convert calories to joules, multiply the value by 4.184. For example, 10 cal = 41.84 J.
How many joules are in 1 calorie?
1 calorie equals 4.184 joules.
What is the formula for calories to joules?
The formula is: J = cal × 4.184.