Using the graph shown in the illustration, the oil being separated has a specific gravity of 0.87 kg/dm3 at 72.5°C. What will be the specific gravity if the temperature is lowered to 40°C? Illustration MO-0113

Correct Answer: Option C — 0.892 kg/dm3

Liquid density and specific gravity increase as temperature decreases due to thermal contraction. Applying standard petroleum temperature correction charts shows that cooling the oil from 72.5°C down to 40°C increases its specific gravity to 0.892 kg/dm3.