Boltzmann constant A constant that converts the temperature of a gas (in kelvin) into the kinetic energy (in joules or electron volts) associated with the thermal motion of the particles comprising the gas. It equals the molar gas constant R divided by the Avogadro constant. It is symbolized by k and has the value 1.380658 × 10-23 J/K (8.62 × 10-5 eV/K). It is named after the Austrian physicist Ludwig Boltzmann (1844-1906) who did important work in statistical mechanics. See also Boltzmann equation. Related categories • HEAT AND THERMODYNAMICS PHYSICAL CHEMISTRY Also on this site: Encyclopedia of Alternative Energy & Sustainable Living Encyclopedia of History Transport Concepts & Designs (partner site) |