What does a high specific gravity indicate about an aggregate?

A high specific gravity indicates that the aggregate is dense and heavy. Specific gravity is a measure of the density of a material compared to the density of water. When an aggregate has a high specific gravity, it means that its particles have a greater mass for a given volume than water. This typically suggests that the aggregate consists of heavy minerals or components, contributing to its overall density.

In practical terms, dense aggregates tend to have superior strength and stability, which makes them desirable in various construction applications, such as in the production of concrete and asphalt. Understanding specific gravity is crucial for engineers and technicians as it affects the performance characteristics of the aggregate, particularly in terms of load-bearing capacity and durability in engineering applications.

The other options relating to lightweight characteristics, high water absorption, or porosity do not align with the implications of a high specific gravity, which primarily indicates greater density rather than these other qualities.