The Pressure Halves
This is a direct application of Boyle's Law, which states that for a fixed amount of gas at constant temperature, the pressure (P) and volume (V) are inversely proportional. Mathematically:
* P₁V₁ = P₂V₂
Where:
* P₁ = Initial pressure
* V₁ = Initial volume (1 liter)
* P₂ = Final pressure
* V₂ = Final volume (2 liters)
If you double the volume (V₂ = 2V₁), the pressure must halve (P₂ = P₁/2) to keep the product constant.
Why This Happens
* More Space: The gas molecules now have twice the space to move around in.
* Fewer Collisions: With more space, the molecules collide with the walls of the container less frequently.
* Reduced Pressure: Pressure is a measure of the force the gas exerts on the container walls. Fewer collisions mean less force, resulting in lower pressure.
Important Note: This assumes the temperature remains constant. If the temperature changes, the relationship between pressure and volume becomes more complex.
