Convert Joules to Kilojoules
Convert Joules (J) to Kilojoules (kJ) instantly and accurately.
Conversion Formula
kJ = J × 0.001
About Joules
The joule (J) is the SI unit of energy, defined as one newton acting through one metre (1 J = 1 N·m = 1 kg·m²/s²). Named after James Prescott Joule, whose 1840s paddle-wheel experiments established the mechanical equivalent of heat (~4.15 J = 1 calorie). One joule is modest: it lifts a 100 g apple by 1 m, heats 0.239 mL of water by 1°C, or powers a 1 W LED for 1 second. Daily adult resting metabolism is ~6-9 MJ. 1 J = 1 W·s = 0.23901 cal = 9.4782 × 10⁻⁴ BTU = 2.7778 × 10⁻⁷ kWh.
About Kilojoules
A kilojoule (kJ) is exactly 1,000 J and is the standard energy unit for food and physical chemistry. EU, Australian, and NZ food labels are mandatory in kJ: recommended adult intake is ~8,400 kJ/day. Bond dissociation energies: C-H bond 413 kJ/mol; C=C double bond 614 kJ/mol; N≡N triple bond 945 kJ/mol. Specific heat of water: 4.184 kJ/(kg·K). A cyclist riding at 150 W for one hour expends 540 kJ. Charpy and Izod impact toughness tests record results in J and kJ. 1 kJ = 1,000 J = 239.0 cal = 0.94782 BTU = 0.27778 Wh.
Quick Reference Table
| Joules (J) | Kilojoules (kJ) |
|---|---|
| 1 J | 0.001 kJ |
| 2 J | 0.002 kJ |
| 5 J | 0.005 kJ |
| 10 J | 0.01 kJ |
| 25 J | 0.025 kJ |
| 50 J | 0.05 kJ |
| 100 J | 0.1 kJ |