Worked example

P1=1 atm, V1=2 L → V2=1 L gives P2=2 atm.

Boyle’s Law

Pressure-volume inverse at constant n,T.

Equation

$P_1 V_1 = P_2 V_2$

Inline: $P_1 V_1 = P_2 V_2$$

Variables

Symbol	Quantity	Unit	Notes
$P$	pressure	atm	—
$V$	volume	L	—

Conditions and limitations

Constant T and n; ideal gas.

Rearrangements

$P_2=P_1V_1/V_2$

Dimensional check: atm·L conserved ✓

Worked example

P1=1 atm, V1=2 L → V2=1 L gives P2=2 atm.

Steps: write equation → substitute with units → check dimensional consistency → report with correct significant figures.

Common errors

• Assuming P directly proportional to V

Related resources

• gases-gas-laws topic
• Calculators — linked only when a real calculator implements this formula.
• Constants — sourced constants with version when values are required.

Sources

• NIST Physical Constants 2022 — CODATA.

Reviewed 2026-08-21 by Editorial Team; due 2027-08-21.