Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
The universal gas constant (R) is an important value used in many equations in thermodynamics including the ideal gas law. Its value depends on the units used but often approximated as 8.314 J/(mol·K).
Related terms
Specific Gas Constant: The specific gas constant is unique to particular gases and is derived from the universal gas constant divided by molar mass.