Deciphering Boyle’s Law- Identifying the Precise Description Among the Options

Which of the following descriptions accurately describes Boyle’s Law?

Boyle’s Law is a fundamental principle in the field of physics, specifically in the study of gases. It states that the pressure of a gas is inversely proportional to its volume, provided that the temperature and the amount of gas remain constant. In simpler terms, as the volume of a gas decreases, its pressure increases, and vice versa. This relationship was first observed and described by the Irish physicist Robert Boyle in the 17th century, hence the name “Boyle’s Law.”

The law can be mathematically expressed as P1V1 = P2V2, where P1 and V1 represent the initial pressure and volume of the gas, and P2 and V2 represent the final pressure and volume. This equation demonstrates that if one variable changes, the other must change in the opposite direction to maintain the product constant.

Now, let’s explore the different descriptions to determine which one accurately describes Boyle’s Law.

Option A: “Boyle’s Law states that the pressure of a gas is directly proportional to its volume.”

This description is incorrect. Boyle’s Law actually states that the pressure of a gas is inversely proportional to its volume, not directly proportional.

Option B: “Boyle’s Law describes the relationship between the temperature and volume of a gas.”

This description is also incorrect. While temperature does play a role in the behavior of gases, Boyle’s Law specifically focuses on the relationship between pressure and volume, not temperature.

Option C: “Boyle’s Law explains that when the volume of a gas increases, its pressure decreases, and when the volume decreases, its pressure increases.”

This description is accurate. It correctly captures the inverse relationship between the volume and pressure of a gas, as stated by Boyle’s Law.

Option D: “Boyle’s Law states that the pressure of a gas is directly proportional to its temperature.”

This description is incorrect. Boyle’s Law does not directly relate the pressure of a gas to its temperature. Instead, it focuses on the relationship between pressure and volume.

In conclusion, the correct description of Boyle’s Law is Option C: “Boyle’s Law explains that when the volume of a gas increases, its pressure decreases, and when the volume decreases, its pressure increases.” This description accurately reflects the inverse relationship between the volume and pressure of a gas, as observed and described by Robert Boyle.