Question #25589

1 Answer

Boyle's law developed by Robert Boyle in 1662, states that if we keep the temperature of a gas constant in a sealed container. Its pressure (P) varies inversely with its volume (V). In other words at any given temperature. If we pressurize a gas its volume will be reduced proportionately to the pressure change. If we increase the volume of a gas its pressure will increase.

I am not sure what you mean by the steps, but I can help you identify a Boyle's Law problem, and tell you how to solve it.

Boyle's Law is that Pressure, P is inversely related to volume, V at constant temperature and number of moles. The mathematical relationship is
P=k1V
which rearranges to

PV=k,

where k is a constant.

Since PV=k, you get P1V1=P2V2.

You can tell a problem will be a Boyle's law problem, if there is a change in pressure or volume and it asks you about the other.

For example, you could be asked the following:
If a gas at atmospheric pressure, has its container expand to three times its volume, what is the new pressure.

Solution
P1=760mmHg
V1=V1

P2=?
V2=3V1 because the new volume is 3 times bigger.

P1V1=P2V2 Boyle's Law

P2=P1V1V2 Divide both sides by V2

P2=(760mmHg)V13V1 Substitute givens.

P2=760mmHg3=253.3mmHg