Data Collection and Analysis
Setting up your data table is crucial for seeing Boyle's Law in action. You'll start by measuring the syringe's diameter (typically around 2.0 cm) and calculating its cross-sectional area using A = πr². With a 1.0 cm radius, you get about 0.000314 m².
When collecting data, record both when adding and removing weights. Start with no weight (0 kg) at about 30 mL volume, then add progressively more weight: 0.05 kg (0.49 N), 0.1 kg (0.98 N), 0.5 kg (4.9 N), and so on. For each mass, calculate the pressure using P = F/A.
The example data shows how volume decreases as pressure increases. With no weight, the volume is 30 mL. As weight increases to 2.15 kg (applying 21.07 N of force), the volume compresses to just 20 mL, creating a pressure of 67,101.9 N/m².
Important Note: When you remove weights and record the corresponding volumes, you should get nearly the same values as when adding weights. Any significant differences could indicate experimental error or air leakage from your syringe.