What is the correct equation representing Charles' Law?

Charles' Law describes the relationship between the volume and temperature of a gas when pressure is held constant. According to this law, the volume of a gas is directly proportional to its absolute temperature (measured in Kelvin). The correct equation representing this relationship is V/T = k, where V is the volume, T is the temperature, and k is a constant.

This relationship indicates that if the temperature of a gas increases, its volume also increases, provided that the pressure remains unchanged. Therefore, as the temperature rises, the gas molecules move more rapidly, causing them to occupy a larger volume. This understanding is fundamental in respiratory care, particularly in situations involving ventilation and lung capacity.

The other options reflect different gas laws or relationships. For example, P/T = k would represent a relationship relevant in other contexts but does not encapsulate the essence of Charles' Law. The equation P × V = k pertains to Boyle's Law, which involves pressure and volume at a constant temperature, whereas the relationship P1V1 = P2V2 is known as the combined gas law, encompassing multiple variables, rather than focusing solely on volume and temperature. Understanding these distinctions is crucial in applying gas laws correctly within respiratory care practice.