Boltzmann Constant

Key Stage 5

Meaning

The Boltzmann constant is the molar gas constant divided by the Avogadro constant.

About the Boltzmann Constant

• The Boltzmann constant denoted by the symbol 𝑘 or 𝑘_B
• The Boltzmann constant has a value of 1.38×10⁻²³ J/K.
• The Boltzmann constant relates the average kinetic energy of particles in a gas with the temperature.
• The Boltzmann constant is fundamental in the statistical description of physical systems.

Examples

• Used in the ideal gas law\[𝑃𝑉=𝑁𝑘𝑇\]
• Used in the formula relating the kinetic energy of molecules to their temperature in an ideal gas\[\frac{1}{2}mv^2=\frac{3}{2}k_BT\]
• Important in the study of thermodynamics and statistical mechanics.