Why is water used in specific gravity?

The term “Specific Gravity” (SG) is used to define the weight or density of a liquid as compared to the density of an equal volume of water at a specified temperature. The temperature used for measurement is usually 39.2oF (4oC), because this temperature allows water to assume its maximum density.

Does water affect specific gravity?

Yes, it can. When using water as a reference for establishing specific gravity, it is almost always assumed that the water is at 4°C, when it’s densest. Water itself becomes less dense as it becomes warmer until it evaporates and becomes steam vapor at boiling point.

Why is water used as a standard for density?

Density is mass divided by volume (ρ=m/v), and water was used as the basis for establishing the metric unit of mass, which means a cubic centimeter (1cm3) of water weighs one gram (1g). So, 1g/1cm3 = 1 g/cm3, giving water its easy-to-remember density.

Why distilled water is used in density test?

Distilled Water Water is used frequently. However, don’t use tap water. Its density or specific gravity isn’t constant and is always higher than distilled water. If you use distilled water, you can minimize the surface tension by adding a bit of liquid soap or detergent.

What is the water specific gravity?

Water has a specific gravity equal to 1. Materials with a specific gravity less than 1 are less dense than water, and will float on the pure liquid; substances with a specific gravity more than 1 are more dense than water, and will sink.

What is specific gravity of water *?

1
4.6. The specific gravity of a liquid is the relative weight of that liquid compared to an equal volume of water. The specific gravity of water is de facto 1.

Why we use distilled water?

Distilled water is basically inert, meaning nothing is in the water but hydrogen and oxygen. Distillation kills most organic matter and removes minerals from the water, making it an ideal control element for science projects and laboratory tests.

Why does specific gravity have no units?

Specific gravity has no units because all the units cancel out in its formula. The formula for the specific gravity of an object is its density…