Why are electron volts used instead of Joules in Quantum Phenomena and how do you convert between the two?

In quantum and particle physics, quantities such as energy and momentum are extremely small and so it is logical to have a standard unit of energies at this scale. It saves time to write 1eV, as opposed to 1.6*(10^-19)J in every sum as well as making quantities easier to compare. An electron volt is described as the energy gained by an electron when passed through a charge of 1 volt and holds the quantity of 1.6*(10^-19)J. Note that this is numerically equivalent to the charge of an electron as E = qV. Therefore, to convert eV to Joules, you simply multiply by this number. To convert Joules to eV, you divide the energy by this constant.

SP
Answered by Sophie P. Physics tutor

10925 Views

See similar Physics A Level tutors

Related Physics A Level answers

All answers ▸

From what height, h, should a rail-cart fall to complete a loop-the-loop of radius r without falling off a the track? Assume the track on which the rail-cart travels is smooth and express h in terms of r.


What is Coulomb's law


What's the difference between inertial and gravitational mass?


What is escape velocity?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning