The joule (symbol J)'s the derived unit of energy in the International System of Units. It's the energy exerted by a force of one newton acting to move an object through a distance of one metre. Algebraically: » , 1, mathrm Definition One joule's the amount of energy required to perform the following physical actions: The work done by a force of one newton traveling through a distance of one metre; The work required to move an electric charge of one coulomb through an electrical potential diff… (More on Joule)