Re: Why the constant of the ideal gas is call R

This is a very interesting question.  I have searched the literature quite 
extensively, even to text books which are quite old.  However, in all 
references to the ideal gas constant, R, there is never a mention of where 
the R came from.  However, if you look at the dimensions for this 
constant, you will note that it is not a physical constant, like the speed 
of light for example, but instead is a constant "ratio" which represents a 
set of physical conditions.  The terms for the constant are "ergs per mole 
per degree", and its value is 8.315x10E7.  It expresses a relationship 
between physical properties of ideal gases and their molecules and their 
energy.  It is possible that since this constant represents a Ratio among 
parameters, the "R" may have simply come from this fact that the constant 
refers to a Relationship!
 
I have found no reference to any scientist who dealt with these concepts 
in the early years whose name begins with "R", and thus the constant might 
bear his name.
 
 
R. Bersin.......