What is the normal range for specific gravity of urine?

The normal range for specific gravity of urine is important for assessing a patient's hydration status and kidney function. A specific gravity range of 1.000 to 1.060 indicates that the urine can vary in concentration, reflecting changes in hydration and solute concentration. This range allows healthcare professionals to evaluate how well the kidneys are filtering waste products and maintaining fluid balance.

When urine is diluted, the specific gravity tends to be closer to 1.000, while more concentrated urine, which occurs during dehydration or when the body is conserving water, will approach the upper limit of the range, around 1.060. Monitoring these values helps in diagnosing various conditions, such as dehydration, kidney disease, and other metabolic or endocrine disorders.

The other ranges provided in the options do not accurately reflect normal physiological conditions for urine specific gravity, as they either represent significantly diluted urine or overly concentrated urine beyond typical physiological limits.