Specific Gravity
Reference from the original Physics I textbook.
- Specific Gravity
Explains the relationship between the density of an object and the density of water. If the SG > , then the object is more dense than water and will therefore sink. If SG < , the object will float.
- Related Glossary Terms
Specific Gravity (Submerged Volume) Approach, Specific Gravity Equation
- Index
Glossary and deeper reading · 1 refreshers
These editorial refreshers supplement the reading. Definitions and examples are added guidance; original source wording and recorded answers remain in their original context.
-
Specific gravity
Specific gravity is a material’s density divided by a chosen reference density. It is dimensionless; for liquids and solids the reference is usually water at a specified temperature. For example, a liquid with specific gravity below one is less dense than the reference water.