What is the relative density of propane compared to air?

The relative density of a gas, also known as its specific gravity, is calculated by comparing the density of the gas to the density of air. In the case of propane, its relative density is about 1.5. This means that propane is approximately 1.5 times denser than air.

A relative density greater than 1 indicates that the gas will tend to sink in air, while a relative density of less than 1 means that the gas will rise. Because propane's relative density is 1.5, it will accumulate close to the ground in case of a leak, posing potential safety hazards. Understanding this property is critical for gas technicians in assessing risks associated with propane usage and ensuring proper ventilation and safety measures are in place.

The other values given do not accurately reflect the characteristics of propane. A relative density of 1.0 would indicate that propane is as dense as air, while a value of 2.0 would suggest it is even denser than some heavier gases; neither is true for propane. A relative density of 0.9 indicates a gas that is lighter than air and would rise, which is not applicable to propane. Thus, recognizing that propane's relative density is approximately 1.5 is essential