How would I convert a value in kcal/mol to joules? Please show steps. For example: convert 26 kcal/mol to joules.
The correct answer and explanation is:
To convert a value from kcal/mol to joules (J), use the following relationship:
1 kilocalorie (kcal) = 4184 joules (J)
Step-by-step conversion:
Given:
26 kcal/mol
Step 1:
Multiply the value in kcal/mol by 4184 to convert to joules per mole.
26 kcal/mol × 4184 J/kcal = 108,784 J/mol
Final Answer:
26 kcal/mol = 108,784 joules/mol
Explanation (about 300 words):
The unit kcal/mol is commonly used in chemistry and biochemistry to express energy changes, such as bond dissociation energies or Gibbs free energy changes. It represents the amount of energy per mole of a substance. However, the SI (International System of Units) requires that energy be expressed in joules (J). Therefore, when working in scientific or engineering contexts, it is often necessary to convert kcal/mol to J/mol.
To perform the conversion, you need to know the conversion factor between kilocalories and joules. This value is based on the mechanical equivalent of heat, which is defined as:
1 kilocalorie = 4184 joules
This means that one kilocalorie of energy is equal to 4184 joules. When you multiply a value in kcal/mol by 4184, you convert it to joules per mole.
For example, if you are given 26 kcal/mol, it means 26 kilocalories of energy per mole of substance. Multiplying 26 by 4184 gives 108,784 joules per mole. This tells you that each mole of the substance involves an energy quantity of 108,784 joules in that process.
This conversion is critical in fields like thermodynamics and physical chemistry where calculations involving heat, energy, and molecular processes must adhere to SI units. Using joules ensures consistency with other physical quantities like work (also measured in joules) and allows easier comparison and combination with other equations and constants in physics and chemistry.