What is the density of water in grams per cubic centimeter?

The density of water is commonly accepted to be 1 gram per cubic centimeter at standard temperature and pressure, typically measured at 4 degrees Celsius, where water reaches its maximum density. This measurement indicates that for every cubic centimeter of water, the mass is precisely 1 gram.

Understanding the significance of this density value is essential in various scientific contexts, including chemistry and physics, where it serves as a reference point for comparing the densities of other substances. Many liquids that are less dense than water will float on its surface, while those with greater densities will sink.

In contrast, the other values presented do not reflect the actual density of water. Specifically, densities of 0.5 g/cc, 1.5 g/cc, and 2 g/cc misrepresent the properties of water. A density of 0.5 g/cc suggests an extremely light liquid, comparable to certain gases, which is not applicable here. Meanwhile, densities of 1.5 g/cc and 2 g/cc pertain to much heavier substances, such as certain metal liquids or concentrated solutions, making them unsuitable for a liquid as commonly known and tested as water.