According to the ideal gas law, what is the equation relating pressure, volume, number of moles, and temperature of a gas?

Study for the AAMC Chemical and Physical Foundations of Biological Systems Test. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question has hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

The equation that relates the pressure, volume, number of moles, and temperature of an ideal gas is given by the equation PV = nRT. This equation encapsulates the relationship among the four variables:

  • P represents the pressure of the gas,
  • V denotes the volume that the gas occupies,

  • n indicates the number of moles of the gas,

  • R is the ideal gas constant, and

  • T is the absolute temperature in Kelvin.

This equation is derived from the combination of empirical relationships observed in gas behaviors and demonstrates how these properties influence each other. For instance, at a constant temperature, an increase in pressure leads to a decrease in volume, exemplifying the inverse relationship between pressure and volume. Similarly, increasing the temperature of the gas while keeping the volume constant requires an increase in pressure, demonstrating the direct relationship between temperature and pressure.

This fundamental law is essential in understanding gas behavior in various scientific and engineering applications, ensuring that it provides a comprehensive understanding of how gases respond to changes in physical conditions.

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