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Please explain why a refractometer is a good equipment choice when performing a specific gravity on a urine sample.

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Final answer:

A refractometer is a good equipment choice when performing a specific gravity test on a urine sample because it can accurately measure the density or concentration of solutes in the urine.

Step-by-step explanation:

A refractometer is a good equipment choice when performing a specific gravity test on a urine sample because it can accurately measure the density or concentration of solutes in the urine. Specific gravity is a measure of the quantity of solutes per unit volume of a solution. A refractometer uses the principle of light refraction to determine the specific gravity of a liquid sample, including urine.

The refractometer works by measuring the refractive index of the urine sample. The refractive index is a property that describes how light bends or changes direction as it passes through a substance. When a liquid sample with a higher concentration of solutes has a higher refractive index, the refractometer measures this change in light direction and calculates the specific gravity of the urine sample.

For example, when a urine sample has a higher solute concentration due to dehydration or infection, the specific gravity will be higher, indicating a more concentrated urine. Conversely, when the urine sample has a lower solute concentration, the specific gravity will be lower, indicating a less concentrated urine. Therefore, using a refractometer provides a quick and accurate measurement of specific gravity, allowing healthcare professionals to assess the kidney's ability to concentrate or dilute urine and diagnose various medical conditions.

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