Boyle's law

Science

Definition

Boyle's law states that the pressure of a gas is inversely proportional to its volume when temperature and the amount of gas are held constant. As volume decreases, pressure increases, and vice versa.

Examples

  • Squeezing a sealed syringe decreases the volume and increases the air pressure inside
  • A diver's lungs compress as they descend deeper underwater due to increasing water pressure
  • A balloon expands when taken to higher altitude where atmospheric pressure is lower
Key Fact

P₁V₁ = P₂V₂ (at constant temperature and moles)

Related Terms

Charles's law Ideal gas law Air pressure

Study This Concept

Practice Boyle's law with free review games in these units:

Chemistry Unit 6: States of Matter and Gas Laws