What is the specific gravity of a substance also known as?

The specific gravity of a substance is specifically referred to as "relative density." This term indicates the ratio of the density of a substance to the density of a reference substance, typically water at a specified temperature. Unlike density, which is an absolute measure (mass per unit volume), relative density provides a comparative measure that allows for understanding how a substance behaves in relation to water.

When measuring specific gravity, if a substance has a relative density greater than one, it will generally sink in water, while those with a relative density less than one will float. This comparison is essential in various fields, including chemistry and materials science, for understanding the buoyancy and physical properties of substances.

Density is an important concept as well, but it refers to the specific measurement of mass to volume and is not synonymous with specific gravity. Similarly, volume and weight are distinct measures that do not directly relate to the idea of specific gravity. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for accurately interpreting the physical properties of materials in various practical applications.