Density is one of the numerous properties of steel. It is calculated by dividing the mass by the volume. Steel comes in many different forms. Density is calculated by dividing the mass by the volume. The density of carbon steel is approximately 7.85 g/cm3 (0.284 lb/in3).

There are many uses for steel. Stainless steel, for example, is used for surgical tools and kitchen utensils. It is a type of steel that contains low carbon levels and at least 10.5% of chromium. This results in corrosion resistance. Another kind of steel, tool steel, is used for metal cutting tools an drill bits because it is hard, but brittle. The amount of carbon in carbon steel  determines the hardness of the steel. The more carbon it contains, the harder the steel. Carbon steel is often used for automobile parts.

Steel and its various forms have multiple uses around the world. The nature of the steel depends on its content, which results in varying densities. In most cases, the denser the steel, the harder it is.The varying amounts of carbon, amongst other elements in each of the types of steel create a variety in densities or specific gravities. (Specific gravity or relative density is the ratio of a material’s density to that of water.)

There are five major classifications of steels: carbon steel, alloy steel, high-strength low-alloy steel, stainless steel and tool steel. Carbon steels are the most common, containing various amounts of carbon, produce everything from machines to bedsprings to bobby pins. Alloy steels have definite amounts of vanadium, molybdenum, manganese, silicon and cooper. Alloy steels produce gears, carving knives and even roller skates. Stainless steels have chromium, nickel amongst other alloy elements which sustains their color and reaction to rust. Stainless steel products include pipes, space capsules, surgical equipment to kitchen equipment. Last but not least, tool steels have tungsten, molybdenum amongst other alloy elements. These elements create the strength and ability of the tool steel products, which include parts for manufacturing operations as well as machinery.