What is the specific gravity of propane gas?

The specific gravity of a gas is a measure of its density relative to the density of air. Propane is a hydrocarbon gas that is commonly used as a fuel. The specific gravity of propane gas is generally reported to be around 1.5. This means that propane is 1.5 times heavier than air.

When comparing to the options provided, 1.5 accurately reflects the density of propane, indicating that it is heavier than air and will tend to settle in low areas in the event of a leak. The other options—1.0, 1.2, and 1.8—do not correctly represent the specific gravity of propane. Specifically, a specific gravity of 1.0 would indicate the gas has the same density as air, which is not the case with propane. A value of 1.2 is also too low, and while 1.8 is higher than the actual specific gravity of propane, it does not accurately reflect the relationship of propane's density to that of air. Understanding the correct specific gravity is essential for safety considerations in handling and using propane, as it affects ventilation and leak management protocols.