How do I convert between eV and J

eV means electron volt - that is, it the amount of energy required for an electron to travel down (or up) a potential gradient with a potential difference of 1V. This energy, known as the work done, W, is given by W = q x V, where q is the charge and V is voltage. In our case the charge q = e = 1.602E-19 Coulombs and V = 1 Volt so the work done W = e x V = 1.602E-19 J. As a result 1eV = 1.602E-19 J.
As an example suppose you have calculated the energy, E, of a photon to be E = 3.97E-21 J. To convert this into eV first remember that 1eV = 1.602E-19 J. We can rewrite this as 1J = 1/1.602E-19 eV. Then simply replace J with 1/1.602E-19 eV to get
E = 3.97E-21 * (1/1.602E-19 eV) = 0.025 eV.

Answered by Physics tutor

41912 Views

See similar Physics A Level tutors

Related Physics A Level answers

All answers ▸

Derive an expression to show that for satellites in a circular orbit T^2 ∝ r^3 where T is the period of orbit and r is the radius of the orbit.


What would happen to n and Emax when  a) the intensity is reduced to 1/2 I but the wavelength λ is unchanged? b) the wavelength λ is reduced but the intensity is unchanged?


When red light is shone on a metal, regardless of the intensity of this light, no current will flow. However if blue light is shone on this metal a current will flow. Why does this occur?


Explain the difference between the direction of the conventional current and the direction of electron flow.


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