How to write joules per metre squared per second

  • Context: High School 
  • Thread starter Thread starter autodidude
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Joules Per
Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The correct way to express joules per metre squared per second is J/m²s, which represents watts per square metre, a standard unit for measuring solar energy. The confusion arises from the grouping of units; while some may write it as Js/m², the proper notation emphasizes the division of joules by both square metres and seconds. This notation aligns with established conventions in physics and engineering, particularly in the context of solar panel energy output.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of SI units and their applications
  • Familiarity with energy measurements, specifically joules
  • Knowledge of area measurements in square metres
  • Basic grasp of time measurements in seconds
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the relationship between joules, watts, and energy transfer
  • Explore the concept of energy density in solar panels
  • Learn about the implications of unit conversions in physics
  • Investigate the role of units in scientific communication and reporting
USEFUL FOR

Students, educators, and professionals in physics, engineering, and renewable energy sectors who require clarity on energy unit expressions and their applications in real-world scenarios.

autodidude
Messages
332
Reaction score
0
This was a question I had in another post, but the main topic was on a similar but different issue...

If I had the dimensions joules per metre squared per second (e.g. like for a solar panel), how would I write that?

I've been told
\frac{Js}{m^2}

But I get \frac{J}{m^2s}

Why is it this:
\frac{J}{1} \times \frac{s}{m^2}
And not:
\frac{J}{m^2} \times \frac{1}{s}

I'm grouping joules over metre squared together whereas everyone I've talked to does the first one - why? And am I wrong for saying 'per metre per second'? Should time come first? What is the convention here?

Thank you
 
Physics news on Phys.org
If you mean that each second you are receiving 'x' joules of energy over each square meter then \frac{J}{m^2 s} are the correct units.
 
I agree with JHamm... you have it correct J/m^2s not Js/m^2
It means Watts per square metre which makes sense when talking about solar panels.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
8K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
4K
  • · Replies 16 ·
Replies
16
Views
3K
  • · Replies 22 ·
Replies
22
Views
2K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
4K
  • · Replies 16 ·
Replies
16
Views
4K
Replies
0
Views
1K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
5K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
4K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
1K