| The purpose of this research has been to investigate the understanding of the ideal gas law and three of its components: pressure, volume, and temperature among high school physics and chemistry students. Analysis of student responses in interviews and on written quizzes administered in high school chemistry and physics classes indicate that, even after instruction, many students are not able to interpret and apply the ideal gas law correctly. In particular, difficulties with operational definitions regarding pressure, volume, and, to some extent, temperature were prevalent. Results also suggest that difficulties with multivariable equations and incorrect ideas about particles and processes at the microscopic level often interfere with the development of a coherent understanding of this topic. Information obtained in this investigation can serve as a useful tool for high school chemistry and physics instructors to guide the design of lesson plans and instructional material. |
