Difference between revisions of "Specific gravity"
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| − | '''Specific gravity''' is a property of any given sample of matter, defined as the [[ratio]] of its [[density]] to that of [[water]] at a given temperature. | + | '''Specific gravity''' is a property of any given sample of matter, defined as the [[ratio]] of its [[density]] to that of [[water]] at a given temperature. It is thus [[dimensionless]]. |
Substances are denser than water if they have a specific gravity greater than 1, and less dense if it is less than 1. However, it does not follow that water has a specific gravity of 1, since the density of water varies according to the temperature. | Substances are denser than water if they have a specific gravity greater than 1, and less dense if it is less than 1. However, it does not follow that water has a specific gravity of 1, since the density of water varies according to the temperature. | ||
Revision as of 21:15, January 25, 2012
It has been suggested that this article or section be merged with [[::density|density]]. (Discuss)
Specific gravity is a property of any given sample of matter, defined as the ratio of its density to that of water at a given temperature. It is thus dimensionless.
Substances are denser than water if they have a specific gravity greater than 1, and less dense if it is less than 1. However, it does not follow that water has a specific gravity of 1, since the density of water varies according to the temperature.
The use of specific gravity is generally discouraged in present-day scientific and technical writing, with absolute values of density preferred.