If the cloud settles to the bottom leaving a clear supernatant, the turbidity is caused by cells or crystals. If the urine remains cloudy after centrifugation, bacteria are present. Not many people enjoy smelling every urine they analyze, but one should note very strong odors. If the urine smells fruity, the chemical analysis for ketones should be positive. Next analyze the specific gravity of the urine.
Some reagent strips have a test area for the analysis of specific gravity.
The refractometer measures the refractive index of the total soluble solids. When a beam of light passes through one substance into another, the beam is refracted so that it travels in another direction. The extent to which the beam is refracted depends on the concentration of the total soluble solids. An old method for determining the specific gravity used the urinometer. This is a hydrometer which is based on the principle that dissolved substances will cause a body to float.