What is API gravity, and how is it calculated?
API gravity is American Institute Petroleum gravity. In short, it is a measure used to determine the weight of petroleum liquids compared to water. Here, the interviewer is not looking for you to give a math or physics lesson. They want to know that you are aware of basic terms and what they mean. Keep your response brief, and easy to follow.
"I understand there is a specific formula used to find the gravity of petroleum liquids from the specific gravity, also known as SG. The formula is: API gravity 141.5/SG - 131.5. I also know that is the API gravity is 10, it is classified as a light oil which will float on water. An API gravity under ten will sink and then becomes categorized as heavy oil."
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Anonymous Answer
API gravity is how heavy petroleum is compared to water.
Kristine's Feedback
Good start! In your answer, you should also mention the formula used to find API gravity.