UseMathematics

Gas Pressure Patterns

UseMathematics Activity

Gas Pressure Patterns

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Gas Lab: Pressure Patterns

Use the PhET simulation to test how pressure changes when you change volume, temperature, and the number of molecules.

PhET simulation embedded
Observation boxes
Auto-scored pattern questions
Standard PDF report
Objective score0 / 12
Objective questions answered0 / 12
Observation boxes filled0 / 3

1. Open the PhET simulation

Use the embedded simulation below. If it does not load inside your school page, open it in a new tab.

Open PhET in new tab
Tip: Students may need to scroll inside this activity or use the new-tab button depending on how Google Sites or Canvas displays the embed.

2. Activity setup

Set up the simulation before collecting observations.

Phase Changes
1
Select Phase Changes.
2
Make sure Neon is selected.
3
Heat the neon to 40 K. K means Kelvin. 40 K is about -233 °C.
4
Let the simulation stabilize. Give it 4 minutes before beginning extra experiments.

3. Time to make observations

Change one thing at a time. After each experiment, reset and return to 40 K before testing the next variable. Do the experiment to the point you see a clear change.

Experiment 1: Decrease volume

Watch the pressure reading while the volume gets much smaller. Push the wall far enough that the container is clearly compressed, not just slightly nudged.

Experiment 2: Add more heat

Reset the experiment, heat back to 40 K, and let it stabilize first. Then add enough heat that the temperature and pressure readings clearly change.

Experiment 3: Add molecules

Reset first. Use the pump at least 50 times so the pattern is easier to see.

Reset the experiment and reheat back to 40 K before starting each new test. Give it 4 minutes to stabilize.

4. Choose the pattern that matches what you observed

For each variable, choose what happens to pressure, the graph that matches the pattern, the type of relationship, and the formula form.

Quick relationship guide

Directly proportionalBoth variables move in the same direction. If one increases, the other also increases.
Inversely proportionalThe variables move in opposite directions. If one increases, the other decreases.
ConstantOne variable changes, but the other stays the same.
LinearThe graph is a straight line. A direct proportion is a special kind of linear relationship that goes through the origin.

Report section

Generate your activity report

Generate the report, then print/save the polished PDF or copy a plain-text fallback for Canvas.

No report generated yet. Complete the activity, then choose Generate Report.