What is Specific Gravity? | Arden's Questions

In summary, specific gravity is a measurement that compares the density of a substance to the density of water. It is calculated by dividing the density of the substance by the density of water and indicates how many times denser or lighter the substance is compared to water. It is commonly used in various scientific fields to identify and classify substances, as well as to determine their physical properties. Specific gravity is important because it provides an easy way to compare the densities of different substances and is also a useful tool in various industries for quality control purposes.
  • #1
Arden
5
0
Does anyone know what specific gravity is? If something has a weight of specific gravity of 780, what does that mean, do I need to take something into account before calculating?

Thank you - Arden
 
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  • #3
Thank you - Arden
 
  • #4
Specific gravity is the density of a substance divided by the density of water.
 
  • #5
It is appropriate to always specify the reference temperature of the water (or air for gases).
 

1. What is specific gravity?

Specific gravity is a measurement that compares the density of a substance to the density of water. It is a dimensionless quantity, meaning it has no units.

2. How is specific gravity calculated?

Specific gravity is calculated by dividing the density of a substance by the density of water. This can be written as SG = ρsubstance / ρwater, where SG is specific gravity, ρ is density, and the subscript "substance" refers to the substance being measured.

3. What does a specific gravity value indicate?

The specific gravity of a substance indicates how many times denser or lighter it is compared to water. A value greater than 1 means the substance is denser than water, while a value less than 1 means it is less dense.

4. How is specific gravity used in science?

Specific gravity is commonly used in various scientific fields, such as chemistry, geology, and engineering. It is used to identify and classify different substances, as well as to determine their purity, concentration, and other physical properties.

5. Why is specific gravity important?

Specific gravity is important because it provides an easy way to compare the densities of different substances. It is also a useful tool in various industries, such as winemaking, brewing, and oil drilling, where it is used to monitor and control the quality and consistency of products.

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