How to convert foot-pounds to calories
To convert a measurement in foot-pounds to calories, multiply the value by 0.32404826681. The conversion factor comes from the relationship between both units and the joule.
For example, to convert 5 ft·lb to calories: 5 × 0.32404826681 = 1.620241 cal.
What is a foot-pound?
A foot-pound is an imperial unit of energy equal to the work done when a force of one pound-force acts through a distance of one foot, about 1.356 joules. The foot-pound comes from imperial mechanics and is still used in the US for torque and energy, notably to describe the muzzle energy of firearms and the output of engines.
Common uses of foot-pounds include: Firearm muzzle energy; Torque specifications (as ft·lbf); Mechanical work in imperial units; Engine and tool energy ratings.
What is a calorie?
A calorie (small calorie) is the energy needed to raise the temperature of one gram of water by one degree Celsius, defined as exactly 4.184 joules. The calorie originated in early-19th-century thermodynamics. The thermochemical calorie, fixed at exactly 4.184 J, is the modern standard, though it is often confused with the larger food Calorie (kilocalorie).
Common uses of calories include: Chemistry and thermodynamics; Heat-of-reaction measurements; Physics heat-transfer problems; Historical energy references.
Foot-pounds to calories worked examples
Here are some common values converted:
1 ft·lb = 0.32404826681 cal 5 ft·lb = 1.620241 cal 10 ft·lb = 3.240483 cal 50 ft·lb = 16.202413 cal 100 ft·lb = 32.404827 cal
Frequently asked questions
How many calories are in one foot-pound?
One foot-pound (ft·lb) equals 0.32404826681 calories (cal). Multiply any value in foot-pounds by 0.32404826681 to convert to calories.
How do I convert foot-pounds to calories?
Multiply the value in foot-pounds by 0.32404826681. For example, 5 ft·lb × 0.32404826681 = 1.620241 cal.
How do I convert calories to foot-pounds?
Multiply the value in calories by 3.08596, or divide by 0.32404826681. Use the swap button on the converter above to reverse the direction.
Is the foot-pound to calorie conversion exact?
The thermochemical calorie is defined as exactly 4.184 J and the BTU as 1055.056 J. Conversions between SI energy units are exact.
What is the formula for foot-pounds to calories?
The formula is: cal = ft·lb × 0.32404826681. This comes from the definition of both units relative to the joule.