How does temperature affect SCBA cylinder pressure?

Higher temperatures increase the pressure in SCBA cylinders due to the principles of gas laws, specifically Boyle's and Charles's Laws. As the temperature of a gas rises, its molecules gain kinetic energy and move faster, leading to more frequent and forceful collisions with the walls of the cylinder. This results in an increase in pressure.

In practical terms, if an SCBA cylinder is exposed to high temperatures, such as in a fire situation, the pressure inside the cylinder can significantly rise, which can influence the safety and performance of the SCBA. It's crucial for users to monitor these conditions to maintain safety standards and effective operation.

The other options do not accurately reflect the behavior of gases under temperature changes. Temperature does have a direct effect on gas pressure, and lower temperatures will not increase pressure either. Therefore, the understanding of how temperature affects SCBA cylinder pressure is fundamental for the safe and effective use of breathing apparatus in emergency situations.