What is the relationship between pressure and volume in gases?

• A. Pressure and volume are directly related
• B. Pressure increases with increasing volume
• C. According to Boyle's Law, pressure and volume are inversely related
• D. There is no predictable relationship between pressure and volume

Answer: (C)

The relationship between pressure and volume in gases is accurately described by Boyle's Law, which states that the pressure of a gas is inversely proportional to its volume when temperature and the amount of gas remain constant. This means that if the volume of a gas decreases, the pressure increases, and vice versa, assuming no other variables change. This inverse relationship can be mathematically expressed as ( PV = k ), where ( P ) represents pressure, ( V ) represents volume, and ( k ) is a constant for a given amount of gas at a constant temperature.

In practical terms, this means that if you compress a gas into a smaller volume, the molecules have less space to move around, leading to more frequent collisions with the walls of the container, which results in increased pressure. Conversely, if the volume increases, the molecules have more space, leading to fewer collisions, and therefore, a decrease in pressure.

Other options misinterpret this relationship. For instance, stating that pressure and volume are directly related contradicts the fundamental concept of Boyle's Law. Similarly, claiming that pressure increases with increasing volume incorrectly suggests a direct relationship between the two variables. Lastly, asserting there is no predictable relationship ignores the well-defined inverse relationship established by Boyle's