What does specific gravity define?

Specific gravity is defined as the ratio of the density of a material to the density of a reference substance, commonly water for liquids and solids. Since water has a specific gravity of 1, a substance with a specific gravity less than 1 will float, while one with a specific gravity greater than 1 will sink. This measurement is important in various applications, including fire safety, as it informs how a material will behave in the presence of water and helps in assessing the risks associated with materials in fire situations.

In this context, comparing a material's weight to that of water provides a clear understanding of how that material will interact with water—something vital when it comes to considerations like extinguishing fires or managing potential flooding hazards. This specific comparison aids in fire prevention strategies and ensuring safety in environments dealing with flammable or hazardous materials.