10 May, 2024

Measuring Energy

What are the units available for measuring energy?

Energy can be measured in several different units, depending on the application or context.

In quantum mechanics, the unit of electron Volts (eV) is normally used.

Whereas in classical newtonian physics instead, the joules (J) is a more practical unit suitable for measuring energy or work:

1 J = 1 Nm = 1 kg⋅m2/s2

To convert energy from electron Volts (eV) units to joules (J), you can apply the following conversion factor:

1 eV = 1.602 x 10-19 J

Additional units also include kilo-Watt-hour (kWh) to quantify an electrical amount or the British Thermal Unit (BTU) relating to heat or even calories (cal) for culinary purposes.