Gas Law Computer Simulation
Boyles and Charles Laws Explained
Name
Period
Go to the following web-site:
http://phet.colorado.edu/en/simulation/gas-properties
Select the “Run Now” button to download the simulation. A Java based “Gas Properties” simulation should
start up in a new window. Follow the instructions below and answer the questions.
Boyles Law
1. Pump the handle 1 or 2 times to get gas into the simulation. Select “Temperature” in the Constant
Parameter section in the upper right hand portion of the window. This will create conditions that
follow Boyles Law.
2. Change the volume of the space by moving the left handle of the container in and out. Be patient and
watch all that happens. Changes to will not be instantaneous.
• Describe in detail what happens to the Pressure Gauge as you change the Volume.
•
Be observant, how does the simulation make the temperature constant? (hint, watch the area
below the container)
3. Boyles Law states the relationship between Volume and Pressure. Explain the relationship.
4. What property of a gas must be kept constant to see Boyles Law?
5. What happens, according to Boyles law, if the Volume of the gas is made very small?
6. Select the “Reset” button to start the next section of the assignment
Charles law
7. Select “None” in the Constant Parameter section in the upper right hand portion of the window.
Pump the handle 1 or 2 times to get gas into the simulation – Wait about 30 seconds for the conditions
to stabilize.
8. Select “Pressure” in the Constant Parameter section in the upper right hand portion of the window.
This will create conditions that follow Charles Law. DO NOT ADD MORE GAS!
9. Change the temperature of the simulation (both higher and lower) with the “Heat Control” tool on the
bottom.
• Describe in detail what happens to the Volume of the container as you change the
temperature.
•
How does the simulation keep the Pressure constant?
10. Charles Law states the relationship between Volume and Temperature. Explain the relationship.
11. What property of the gas must be kept constant to see Charles Law?
12. Play with the simulation. Explain any interesting things you can make happen.