Joule Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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joule
[dʒuːl ]
Definition
unit of energy
The joule is the SI unit of energy. It is defined as the energy transferred when one newton of force is applied over one meter in the direction of the force. One joule is equivalent to one watt-second, and it represents the energy used when an electrical 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 contributed significantly to the understanding of energy and thermodynamics.
Synonyms
energy unit, watt-second.
Examples of usage
- The light bulb consumed 60 joules per second.
- This battery has a capacity of 1000 joules.
- The work done is 50 joules when lifting the box.
- Energy transferred equals 100 joules in this process.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Science
- One joule is the energy used when a one-newton force moves an object one meter.
- It is often used in physics to describe work done or energy transferred, with notable significance in thermodynamics.
- Heating water requires a certain number of joules, making it easy to relate to everyday experiences like cooking.
History
- Joule’s experiments in the 1840s demonstrated the conversion between mechanical and thermal energy.
- His work on the mechanical equivalent of heat laid foundational principles for the laws of thermodynamics.
- Joule’s legacy lives on, influencing technology developments since the Industrial Revolution.
Pop Culture
- In movies and shows involving science or energy (like superhero films), energy measurements are often dramatized but rooted in physics principles like joules.
- Songs or references in pop culture might use 'joule' metaphorically to signify power or impact in life.
- Science fiction often mentions energy sources in joules, highlighting its relevance in futuristic technology discussions.
Applications
- Joules are used to quantify electricity in everyday devices, like light bulbs, where energy consumption is labeled in joules per second, or watts.
- Fitness trackers often calculate calories burned in joules as part of their health monitoring features.
- In cooking, understanding the joules involved can help in measuring the energy needed for various food preparation techniques.
Origin of 'joule'
Main points about word origin
- The term comes from the name of James Prescott Joule, a British physicist who studied energy.
- It was first introduced in the mid-19th century as part of the scientific revolution in understanding energy.
- In French, the word 'joule' is also used, keeping the same pronunciation and context in science.
The term 'joule' originates from the name of the English physicist James Prescott Joule, who lived from 1818 to 1889. He was a pioneering figure in the field of thermodynamics and is best known for his experiments on energy conservation and the transformation of heat. The joule was adopted as a standard unit of energy in 1889 by the International Electrical Exhibition in Paris, recognizing Joule's significant contributions to science. The name serves to honor his work on mechanical energy and heat, notably the Joule's law, which states that the heat produced is proportional to the current squared, resistance, and time. Over time, the joule has become an essential unit in various scientific fields, including physics, chemistry, and engineering, and is widely used in calculations involving energy, work, and heat.
Word Frequency Rank
This word's position of #30,855 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.
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