What is the Boltzmann constant?

The Boltzmann constant is k_B = 1.380649e-23 J/K, exact by SI definition (zero uncertainty). In eV/K it is 8.617333262e-5 eV/K.

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Key facts

Value1.380649e-23 J/K
Symbolk_B
In eV/K8.617333262e-5 eV/K
ExactnessExact by SI definition (uncertainty 0)
SourceCODATA 2018

Frequently asked questions

What is the value of the Boltzmann constant?

k_B = 1.380649e-23 joules per kelvin, an exact defining constant of the SI since 2019.

What does the Boltzmann constant relate?

It links the average kinetic energy of particles to temperature, and connects entropy to microstates via S = k_B·ln(W).

How is k_B related to the gas constant?

R = N_A · k_B, so the molar gas constant equals Avogadro's number times the Boltzmann constant.

Related pages

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