Density
Density is one of the most important fluid properties, calculated as mass divided by volume ρ=m/V, measured in kg/m³. This simple ratio tells us how much "stuff" is packed into a given space, helping us predict how objects will behave in fluids.
Specific Gravity (SG) compares an object's density to water's density: SG = ρ_object/ρ_water. This gives us a quick way to predict floating behavior—if SG > 1, the object sinks; if SG < 1, it floats. You can apply this concept with any fluid, not just water.
Remember this: The weight of a fluid can be calculated as ρVg (density × volume × gravity), while an object's weight is simply mg (mass × gravity).
When you know an object's specific gravity relative to a fluid like oil, you can immediately predict whether it will sink or float in that particular fluid. This concept helps explain everyday phenomena like why ice cubes float in water but sink in alcohol.