Specific gravity

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Specific gravity of a substance a comparison of the density of a substance relative to a standard value. Scientists express specific gravity of liquids and solids using water at 4°C as the standard.

SpecificGravity.gif

In calculating the specific gravity of a substance, the density of the substance and the density of water are expressed in the same units. This leaves specific gravity unitless.

The density of water at 4°C is 1.00 g/mL. Therefore, the density of solids or liquids expressed as g/mL is numerically equal to their specific gravities.

The notation of expressing specific gravity is given below.

SpecificGravity hexane.gif


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BCIT courses: CHEM 0011