HAZMAT Technician Practice Exam

What does specific gravity compare?

1. The weight of a solid compared to an equal volume of a gas

2. The weight of a solid or liquid compared to an equal volume of water

3. The density of a liquid to its boiling point

4. The weight of water compared to air

The correct answer is: The weight of a solid or liquid compared to an equal volume of water

Specific gravity is a dimensionless quantity that provides a comparison of the density of a substance to the density of water. Specifically, it measures the weight of a solid or liquid relative to an equal volume of water at a specified temperature, typically 4 degrees Celsius when water's density is at its maximum. This relationship is vital in various applications, particularly in identifying hazardous materials, as it helps in determining whether a substance will sink or float in water, which can influence containment and cleanup strategies during hazardous material incidents. Understanding specific gravity enables HAZMAT technicians to assess the behavior of materials and barriers effectively, aiding in safety assessments and response planning.