What does refractometry assess in a substance?

Refractometry primarily assesses the refractive index of a substance. The refractive index is a measure of how much light is bent, or refracted, when it enters a material. This property is dependent on the substance's composition and concentration, making refractometry a useful tool for determining the purity and concentration of solutions, especially in clinical laboratories.

For instance, in the context of urine analysis, the refractive index can indicate hydration status and the concentration of solutes in the urine. It provides a non-destructive and quick method to evaluate various liquids, making it valuable in many laboratory settings.

While pH levels, specific gravity, and conductivity are also important measurements in laboratory analyses, they are assessed using different methods. pH is determined using pH meters or indicators, specific gravity involves weighing a substance against water, and conductivity measures the ability of a substance to conduct electricity, often using a conductivity meter. Therefore, refractometry is distinct in its focus on the refractive index.