What is the temperature range of the electrolyte in a lead-acid battery that does not require a correction when measuring its specific gravity?

• A. 70º F to 90º F
• B. 32º F to 60º F
• C. 50º F to 70º F
• D. 90º F to 110º F

Answer: (A)

Temperature affects electrolyte density, and specific gravity readings from a hydrometer are calibrated at a standard temperature (around 80°F). If the electrolyte is between about 70°F and 90°F, the reading is close enough to that standard that no temperature correction is needed. This window keeps the SG value aligned with the published table values, giving an accurate indication of state of charge. If the electrolyte lies outside this range, you’d apply a temperature correction using a chart or formula because colder electrolyte reads higher and hotter electrolyte reads lower, which would skew the charge indication. The other options fall outside the no-correction band, so they would require adjustment.