Key Concepts: Charles' Law

Core Definitions

• Charles' Law: At constant pressure, volume and temperature are directly proportional: V₁/T₁ = V₂/T₂.
• Direct Relationship: As temperature increases, volume increases (and vice versa).
• Constant Pressure: Charles' Law only applies when pressure does not change.
• Temperature in Kelvin: Always use Kelvin for gas law calculations (K = °C + 273).
• Absolute Zero: 0 K (−273°C); theoretically, gas volume would be zero.
• Example: A hot air balloon rises because heated air expands (greater volume, same pressure).