How to convert cm^-1 into erg or joules

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The discussion addresses the conversion of cm^-1 into energy units like erg or joules, clarifying that cm^-1 is not a direct unit of energy. It explains that cm^-1 can relate to the energy of photons, specifically referencing a photon with a wavelength of 1 cm, which equates to approximately 1.99 x 10^(-23) joules. The conversation also highlights the importance of context, as the original inquiry stemmed from a chemistry problem involving crystal fields. Ultimately, the participants confirm that while cm^-1 cannot be converted directly to energy, it can be associated with photon energy calculations. Understanding these relationships is crucial for solving related chemistry problems.
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I'm not sure if this is the right place for this, but I can't seem to find how to convert cm^-1 into erg or joules... It's a pretty dumb question, but I can't find the answer anywhere.

Thanks a lot in advance!
 
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You cant, because cm^(-1) is not a unit of energy. The base units of energy are m l t^(-2). For example Ergs are grams cm seconds^(-2) and Joules are kg m seconds^(-2).
 


The only meaning that I can think of for that is perhaps comparing the energy to that of a photon of wavelength one cm.

For example, a photon of wavelength 1mm would have an energy of 10 cm^(-1) and so on.

In that case the conversion factor would just be the energy of a photon wavelength 1cm, which is 100 h c, or about 1.99 x 10^(-23) Joules.

In what context did you see this unit used Alien?
 


Failed to mention context, sorry. But yes, it was the way you predicted. Thank you very much!

It was a Chemistry problem about crystal fields.
 

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