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Methods & Processes
Comparatively Speaking: Density vs. Specific Gravity
By: Anthony J. O'Lenick Jr., Siltech LLC
Posted: April 26, 2011
page 2 of 2
This apparatus enables a liquid's density to be measured accurately and compared with a working reference fluid, such as water or mercury, using an analytical balance. If the flask is weighed empty, then full of water, and finally filled with a liquid whose specific gravity is being investigated, the specific gravity of that liquid can easily be calculated.
The particle density of a powder, to which the usual method of weighing cannot be applied, can also be determined using a pycnometer. The powder is added to the pycnometer, which is then weighed, giving the weight of the powder sample.
References
1. www.ask.com/wiki/Relative_density
