1. What is API Gravity?

API Gravity is a measure of how heavy or light petroleum liquid is compared to water. It was developed by the American Petroleum Institute to quantify the density of petroleum liquids.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the API Gravity formula:

Where:

• \( API \) — API Gravity in degrees
• \( SG \) — Specific Gravity (dimensionless)

Explanation: The formula inversely relates API Gravity to Specific Gravity - higher API means lighter (less dense) liquid.

3. Importance of API Gravity

Details: API Gravity is crucial in the petroleum industry for classifying crude oils, determining quality, and calculating shipping quantities.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the Specific Gravity (SG) value (ratio of density of oil to density of water). The value must be greater than 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's the range of API Gravity values?
A: Typically ranges from 10° (heavy crude) to 50° (light crude). Water has an API Gravity of 10°.

Q2: How does API Gravity relate to oil quality?
A: Higher API Gravity generally indicates lighter, more valuable crude that yields more gasoline and diesel.

Q3: When is API Gravity measured?
A: Measured at standard conditions (60°F/15.6°C) during oil production, refining, and trading.

Q4: Are there limitations to API Gravity?
A: It doesn't account for oil composition or impurities, just density relative to water.

Q5: How does API Gravity affect pricing?
A: Lighter crudes (higher API) generally command higher prices due to better refining yields.