A 1-inch cube of tungsten weighs approximately 0.68 pounds (308 grams)
A 1-inch cube of tungsten has a volume of 1 cubic inch and a mass of about 0.68 pounds or 308 grams. This high density makes tungsten one of the heaviest common metals, with a specific gravity of 19.25 g/cm³. The weight is equivalent to holding a standard baseball or slightly more than two AA batteries.
Tungsten density compared to other common metals
| Metal | Density (g/cm³) | Weight of 1" cube (grams) |
|---|---|---|
| Tungsten | 19.25 | 308 |
| Lead | 11.34 | 181 |
| Steel | 7.85 | 125 |
| Copper | 8.96 | 143 |
| Aluminum | 2.70 | 43 |
Factors affecting tungsten cube weight
- Purity: Commercial tungsten is typically 95-99.5% pure, with impurities slightly reducing density
- Temperature: Density decreases by about 0.005% per degree Celsius above room temperature
- Manufacturing: Sintered tungsten may have microscopic voids, reducing weight by 0.1-0.5%
Practical applications of tungsten's weight
- Counterweights: Used in aircraft and racing vehicles for precise balance
- Radiation shielding: High density provides effective gamma/X-ray protection in compact form
- Aerospace components: Counterbalances in satellites and precision instruments
- Jewelry: Premium density provides substantial feel in wedding bands and accessories