What does specific gravity measure?

Specific gravity is a dimensionless quantity that measures the density of a substance relative to the density of water at a specific temperature, typically 4 degrees Celsius where water is most dense. It is defined as the ratio of the density of the substance to the density of water. Therefore, when we say specific gravity, we are essentially comparing the weight of a substance to the weight of an equal volume of water. This is a crucial concept in fields like water treatment, as it helps operators understand whether substances will float or sink and how they behave in various chemical processes. Understanding specific gravity is vital for assessing materials in water treatment operations, as it influences the separation processes and treatment efficiency.