Physics formula reference

Ideal Gas Law

Relates pressure, volume, amount, and absolute temperature for an ideal gas.

Open in editor
LaTeXPV=nRT

Variables

  • P: pressure
  • V: volume
  • n: amount
  • R: gas constant
  • T: absolute temperature

How to use this formula

Relates pressure, volume, amount, and absolute temperature for an ideal gas.

Important notes

  • Temperature must be absolute, typically kelvin.

Quick example

At fixed n and T, pressure is inversely proportional to volume.

Applicability, worked calculation, and verification

Assumptions and domain checks

  • Temperature must be absolute, typically kelvin.
  • Use dimensionally consistent units and the sign, coordinate, and reference-frame conventions stated for the problem.

Worked example

Input

Output

At fixed n and T, pressure is inversely proportional to volume.

Common mistakes

  • Do not combine values with inconsistent units or sign conventions in Ideal Gas Law; perform a dimensional check before accepting the result.
  • Verify the result of Ideal Gas Law with a known case, inverse operation, dimensional check, or independent calculation before publishing it.

Continue the workflow

Use Ideal Gas Law in your own work

  1. Check the domainMatch the variables and assumptions to the problem before substituting values.
  2. Copy the exact notationPreserve grouping, signs, and exponents in PV=nRT.
  3. Edit or convertOpen the expression in the LaTeX editor, then export it for your document or web page.

Review and verification

Last reviewed: 2026-07-23

Automated quality check: Kept noindex until the missing evidence is supplied.

Formula references

  • College Physics 2eOpenStax, Rice University — Reviewed physical quantities, units, mechanics, energy, waves, electricity, and applied formulas.

Frequently asked questions

What is the Ideal Gas Law used for?

Relates pressure, volume, amount, and absolute temperature for an ideal gas.

Can I copy this formula as LaTeX?

Yes. Copy PV=nRT or open it in the LaTeX editor.

What should I check before using it?

Confirm that each variable, unit, domain restriction, and assumption matches the problem.

Reuse, attribution, and correction

Share this reference without losing its source

Copy a citation, permanent link, Markdown link, or self-contained embed card. Each reusable format points readers back to the maintained canonical page.

Report an issue

Search the whole reference

Symbols, formulas, guides, tools and commands

Start typing to search.

move · Enter open · Esc close