One tonne TNT equivalent
One tonne of TNT equivalent is a conventional unit of energy, defined as 4.184 gigajoules rather than by the variable yield of a particular explosive sample.
Also known as: tonne of TNT, 1 ton TNT equivalent
How big is it?
4.184 GJ · defined TNT equivalent energy
Defined TNT equivalent energy · definition
A little perspective
One tonne TNT equivalent vs Lightning energy model: energy comparison
One tonne of TNT equivalent is about 4.18 times the energy of a lightning energy model.
ENERGY STORED OR TRANSFERRED
One tonne of TNT equivalent is a conventional unit of energy, defined as 4.184 gigajoules rather than by the variable yield of a particular explosive sample.
A lightning energy model represents the total energy released during a single lightning discharge.
Measurements, assumptions & sources +
One tonne TNT equivalent
Defined TNT equivalent energy: 4.184 GJ; definition.
One tonne of TNT equivalent is conventionally defined as 4.184 gigajoules. It is an energy unit reference, not a claim that every tonne of real TNT releases exactly this amount.
The marked defined TNT equivalent energy is calibrated. Unmeasured illustration details are representative.
Lightning energy model
Energy: 1 GJ; defined energy model.
A deliberately rough 1 GJ discharge model. Real flashes vary by orders of magnitude.
Defined examples — our methodology
The marked energy is calibrated. Unmeasured illustration details are representative.
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Why this measurement?
Why we use 4.184 GJ
We compare one tonne of TNT equivalent. This value follows an exact definition or conversion.
One tonne of TNT equivalent is conventionally defined as 4.184 gigajoules. It is an energy unit reference, not a claim that every tonne of real TNT releases exactly this amount.
The picture identifies the subject; the diagram compares the recorded values. How calibrated comparisons work →
Recorded properties
Dimensions and measurements
| Property | Selected value | Recorded range | Basis |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4.184 GJ | Not recorded | definition |
Around this scale
Explore nearby values.
Compare examples with lower, similar and higher values. Each card names the measurement being compared.
Nearest lower valueEnergyLightning energy model1 GJEnergyA lightning energy model represents the total energy released during a single lightning discharge.
Nearest higher valueEnergyAn industrial terajoule1 TJEnergyAn industrial terajoule is a large unit of energy used to quantify industrial-scale processes or outputs.Sources and method
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The source records and measurement method remain available for inspection.
- NIST — SI conversion factorsInternational foot and mile; avoirdupois mass; liquid US and Imperial capacity.
There’s always another scale
Follow your curiosity.
EnergyLightning energy model1 GJA lightning energy model represents the total energy released during a single lightning discharge.EnergyAn industrial terajoule1 TJAn industrial terajoule is a large unit of energy used to quantify industrial-scale processes or outputs.
EnergyElectric car battery216 MJAn electric car battery stores energy to power an electric vehicle.
EnergyFreight train at cruising speed1.23 GJThe kinetic energy of a freight train at cruising speed is the energy it has because of its motion along the tracks.
EnergyA 10 kWh day36 MJThis is the amount of electrical energy consumed by a household over the course of one day.
EnergyOne litre of petrol34 MJOne litre of petrol is a standard quantity of liquid fuel used in combustion engines.
EnergyA 2,000 kcal food day8.368 MJDaily food energy is the chemical energy a person obtains from all food and drink consumed over a day.
EnergyHeat one litre of water334.4 kJHeating one litre of water is the energy required to raise the temperature of a standard amount of water to near boiling.