Fuels — Approximate specific gravity of petrol (gasoline) At standard reference conditions used in automotive practice, what is a typical specific gravity value for petrol?
-
A0.75
-
B0.85
-
C0.95
-
D1.25
-
E0.60
Answer
Correct Answer: 0.75
Explanation
Introduction / Context:Specific gravity (relative density) indicates a liquid’s density relative to water at a reference temperature. For gasoline, this affects fuel system calibration, evaporative behavior, and mass-based fuel economy calculations.
Given Data / Assumptions:
- Automotive petrol at around 15 °C reference conditions.
- Typical commercial blends (not aviation gasoline or special racing fuels).
Concept / Approach:Common gasoline blends have specific gravity roughly in the 0.70–0.77 range at 15 °C. A nominal textbook value of about 0.74–0.75 is often used for engineering estimates where precise density is not provided.
Step-by-Step Solution:Recognize typical range for petrol density.Select a representative value used in calculations.Answer: approximately 0.75.
Verification / Alternative check:Fuel data sheets from refineries show densities corresponding to specific gravities in the cited range depending on aromatics and temperature.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:0.85/0.95/1.25: too high for petrol; closer to diesel or heavier oils.0.60: too low for any standard road gasoline.
Common Pitfalls:Confusing gasoline with diesel (SG ~0.82–0.86).
Final Answer:0.75