1. What is Specific Weight?

Specific weight (also known as unit weight) is the weight per unit volume of a material. It is calculated by multiplying density (ρ) by the acceleration due to gravity (g).

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the specific weight equation:

Where:

• \( \gamma \) — Specific weight (N/m³)
• \( \rho \) — Density (kg/m³)
• \( g \) — Acceleration due to gravity (9.81 m/s² on Earth)

Explanation: The equation shows that specific weight is simply the product of density and gravitational acceleration.

3. Importance of Specific Weight Calculation

Details: Specific weight is important in fluid mechanics, civil engineering, and material science for calculating forces exerted by fluids and designing structures that interact with fluids.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter density in kg/m³ and gravity in m/s² (9.81 m/s² is standard Earth gravity). All values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's the difference between density and specific weight?
A: Density is mass per unit volume (kg/m³), while specific weight is weight (force) per unit volume (N/m³).

Q2: Does specific weight change with location?
A: Yes, since gravity varies slightly by location (altitude and latitude), specific weight changes while density remains constant.

Q3: What are typical specific weight values?
A: Water at 4°C has γ ≈ 9806 N/m³, air ≈ 12 N/m³, mercury ≈ 133,100 N/m³ (all at standard Earth gravity).

Q4: Can I use this for any material?
A: Yes, as long as you know the material's density, you can calculate its specific weight.

Q5: How does temperature affect specific weight?
A: Temperature affects density (ρ), which in turn affects specific weight. Most materials expand when heated, decreasing density and specific weight.