Specific Gravity: Understanding the Density of Materials
What is specific gravity?
Specific gravity, often known as relative density, is a measurement of a material's density in relation to a reference substance. Water, which has a density of 1.0 kilogram per litre at 4 °C (39.2 °F), is typically used as a benchmark for comparing solids and liquids (62.4 pounds per cubic foot). Dry air, which is frequently used to compare gases, has a density of 1.29 grams per litre (1.29 ounces per cubic foot) at standard circumstances (0 °C and 1 standard atmosphere). For instance, liquid mercury has a specific gravity of 13.6 and a density of 13.6 kg per litre.
You find a clear green gem with a specific gravity of about 4, and a dodecahedron-shaped crystal. This is most likely a ____.
- Ugrandite Garnet
- Pyralspite Garnet
- Diamond
- Peridot
- Nephrite
Answer:
The green gem with a specific gravity of about 4 and a dodecahedron-shaped crystal is a Pyralspite Garnet. So, the correct option is Pyralspite Garnet (B).
Specific gravity plays a crucial role in determining the type of material based on its density compared to a standard reference. In the case of the green gem with a specific gravity of about 4 and a dodecahedron shape, it is identified as a Pyralspite Garnet.
Both Pyralspite and Ugrandite Garnets are often found in gemstones, with Pyralspite garnets being more common than Ugrandite garnets. The specific gravity of 4 indicates the relative density of the Pyralspite Garnet compared to water.
Understanding specific gravity helps gemologists and scientists identify minerals and gemstones based on their physical properties. It provides valuable information about the composition and characteristics of various materials.
For further information on specific gravity and its significance in identifying minerals, you can refer to reliable sources and scientific resources.