The density of gold is approximately 19.3 g/cm³ at room temperature. This high density is a key characteristic of gold, making it significantly heavier than many other metals. It's almost double the density of silver and is very similar to the density of tungsten (19.25 g/cm³), a fact that has been exploited in the counterfeiting of gold bars.
Understanding Gold's Density
Gold's density (19.3 g/cm³) means that one cubic centimeter of gold has a mass of 19.3 grams. This high density contributes to gold's value and its use in various applications.
- High Density and Value: The high density is one of the reasons gold is so valuable. A small volume of gold holds a significant mass.
- Counterfeiting Concerns: The similarity in density between gold and tungsten (19.25 g/cm³) leads to challenges in distinguishing genuine gold from counterfeits. Tungsten can be plated with a thin layer of gold to mimic the appearance and weight of a solid gold bar.
- Temperature Dependence: While the density is generally cited as 19.3 g/cm³, it is worth noting that the density of gold, like other substances, slightly changes with temperature.
Several sources confirm this density value:
- Wikipedia: States gold's density as 19.3 g/cm³, noting its similarity to tungsten. Gold - Wikipedia
- LBMA: Reports a density of 19.32 g/cm³ at room temperature. Density of Gold - LBMA
- BullionByPost: Highlights the density as 19.32 grams per cubic centimeter, emphasizing its significance in gold's desirability. The Density Of Gold - Simple Guide & Table | BullionByPost
- Other Sources: Numerous other reputable sources, including scientific publications and educational websites, corroborate this density value.
