Density Converter

What Is Density

Density measures mass per unit volume. You express this property in kilograms per cubic meter (kg/m³) in SI units. Common units include g/cm³, lb/ft³, and kg/L.

Density determines whether objects float or sink. Materials less dense than water (1000 kg/m³) float. Engineers use density for weight calculations and material selection.

Density Formula

Calculate density from mass and volume:

Where ρ equals density, m equals mass, and V equals volume.

Example: A metal block weighs 5.4 kg and occupies 2 liters:

This density matches aluminum. You identify materials by comparing measured density to known values.

Density of Common Materials

Specific Gravity

Specific gravity compares material density to water density. You calculate it as a dimensionless ratio:

Specific gravity equals density in g/cm³ numerically. Aluminum with density 2.7 g/cm³ has specific gravity 2.7. Materials with SG less than 1 float in water.

Hydrometers measure specific gravity of liquids. Battery acid SG indicates charge state. Urine SG helps diagnose medical conditions. Brewing uses SG to track fermentation.

Unit Conversion Factors

Frequently Asked Questions