Which formula converts heat to work?

The conversion between heat and work is a fundamental aspect of thermodynamics and is represented by the relationship that 1 BTU (British Thermal Unit) is equivalent to 778 foot-pounds of work. This established conversion is based on the principle that a certain amount of heat energy can be transformed into mechanical work. When heat energy is applied to a system, it can cause changes like moving a piston in an engine, which translates the thermal energy into physical work.

Understanding this conversion is crucial for applications in mechanical and marine engineering, where the conversion of heat energy—often from combustion—into mechanical power is a key factor in engine performance and efficiency. The value of 778 foot-pounds aligns with the defined relationship of energy within the imperial system, making it a vital piece of knowledge for machinists and engineers dealing with systems that rely on heat engines.