1. What is Specific Weight of Water?

Definition: Specific weight (γ) is the weight per unit volume of a material, calculated as the product of density (ρ) and gravitational acceleration (g).

Purpose: It's essential in fluid mechanics and engineering calculations involving water pressure, buoyancy, and hydraulic systems.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( \gamma \) — Specific weight (lb/ft³)
• \( \rho \) — Density of water (lb/ft³)
• \( g \) — Gravitational acceleration (32.174 ft/s²)

Explanation: The density of water is multiplied by standard gravity to determine its weight per unit volume.

3. Importance of Specific Weight

Details: Specific weight is crucial for calculating hydrostatic pressure, designing dams and tanks, and solving buoyancy problems.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter water density (default 1.94 lb/ft³) and gravity (default 32.174 ft/s²). All values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's the typical specific weight of water?
A: At standard conditions, water has a specific weight of ~62.4 lb/ft³ (1.94 lb/ft³ × 32.174 ft/s²).

Q2: Does specific weight change with temperature?
A: Yes, as density changes with temperature, though gravity remains constant.

Q3: How does this differ from density?
A: Density is mass per unit volume, while specific weight is force (weight) per unit volume.

Q4: When would I need to adjust the gravity value?
A: For extreme precision or calculations at different elevations where gravity varies slightly.

Q5: What units are used in this calculation?
A: English (imperial) units: pounds per cubic foot (lb/ft³) and feet per second squared (ft/s²).