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What is the specific gravity of natural gas compared to air?

  1. Greater than that of air

  2. Equal to that of air

  3. Less than that of air

  4. Dependent on the temperature

The correct answer is: Less than that of air

Natural gas has a specific gravity that is indeed less than that of air. The specific gravity of a substance is a dimensionless number that indicates how dense it is compared to a standard reference substance, which in this case is air. Specifically, the specific gravity of natural gas is typically around 0.6 to 0.8, whereas the specific gravity of air is approximately 1. This means that natural gas is lighter than air, which has practical implications for its behavior in the environment. For example, when natural gas is released into the atmosphere, it tends to rise and disperse rather than settle on the ground. This property is crucial for safety considerations, as it reduces the risk of accumulation in enclosed spaces where explosive concentrations could develop. Understanding the specific gravity of natural gas is essential for gas fitters and related professionals, as it informs decisions regarding ventilation, gas detection, and safety measures in both residential and commercial settings.