What are some common mistakes students make with the Boyle's law?

1 Answer
Jun 14, 2014

Boyle's Law compares the inverse relationship between pressure and volume of at gas at a constant temperature. Boyle's Law is based upon the mathematical relationship between pressure an volume in the equation #P_iV_i =P_f##V_f#.

The most common mistake students make is in making sure their units are compatible. Pressure can be measured in atmospheres (atm), Torrcellis (torr), millimeters of mercury (mmHg), Pascals (Pa). Volume can be measured in liters (L), milliliters (mL), centimeters cubed #cm^3# or decimeters cubed #dm^3#. With so many different possibilities for units, it is very important that students make sure the units on both sides of the equation are the same.

I hope this was helpful.
SMARTERTEACHER