In: Physics
What is a joule? What is the equivalent unit in the English system?
Joule (symbol J) is a unit of energy which is followed internationally ( ie SI unit)
it is a measure of capacity to do work or generate heat.
Simply if we imagine in physical sense; 1 Joule of energy is the energy needed to move 1 kg mass block at acceleration of 1m/s2 for distance of 1 metre .
OR
1 Joule of energy is the energy needed/expelled for a force of one newton (N) to act over a distance of one meter (m). Therefore, one joule equals one newton•meter.
[ Note : newton (N) & meter. are international units for force and distance (SI units)]
English System of unit measure unit of Energy in foot-pound. This comes from the relation that mechanical work done (pushing an object through a distance, feet, against a force, pound) transfers energy.
( As feet & pound are english units for force and distance (SI units)]
Besides motion and work, the another most commonly used unit is (in heat /thermal systems) British Thermal Unit (BTU), it is also a English unit of energy . ( 1 BTU =1055.6 Joule)