How to convert kilocalories to calories
To convert a measurement in kilocalories to calories, multiply the value by 1,000. The conversion factor comes from the relationship between both units and the joule.
For example, to convert 5 kcal to calories: 5 × 1,000 = 5,000 cal.
What is a kilocalorie?
A kilocalorie equals 1,000 small calories, or exactly 4,184 joules, and is the 'Calorie' shown on food nutrition labels. The food Calorie (capital C) is actually a kilocalorie. This convention, established in nutrition science, means a 500-Calorie meal contains 500 kilocalories, or about 2,092 kilojoules.
Common uses of kilocalories include: Food energy (the dietary 'Calorie'); Metabolism and exercise burn estimates; Nutrition and diet planning; Bomb-calorimetry food testing.
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.
Kilocalories to calories worked examples
Here are some common values converted:
1 kcal = 1,000 cal 5 kcal = 5,000 cal 10 kcal = 10,000 cal 50 kcal = 50,000 cal 100 kcal = 100,000 cal
Frequently asked questions
How many calories are in one kilocalorie?
One kilocalorie (kcal) equals 1,000 calories (cal). Multiply any value in kilocalories by 1,000 to convert to calories.
How do I convert kilocalories to calories?
Multiply the value in kilocalories by 1,000. For example, 5 kcal × 1,000 = 5,000 cal.
How do I convert calories to kilocalories?
Multiply the value in calories by 0.001, or divide by 1,000. Use the swap button on the converter above to reverse the direction.
Is the kilocalorie 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 kilocalories to calories?
The formula is: cal = kcal × 1,000. This comes from the definition of both units relative to the joule.