If a freshly voided urine sample contains excessive amounts of urochrome, it has a. an ammonia-like odor, b. a pH below normal, c. a dark yellow color, d. a pH above normal.

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify what urochrome is and its role in urine coloration. Urochrome is a pigment that gives urine its characteristic yellow color.
2. Consider the options given: ammonia-like odor, pH below normal, dark yellow color, and pH above normal.
3. Recall that the concentration of urochrome in urine is directly related to the color intensity. More urochrome results in a darker yellow color.
4. Evaluate each option: an ammonia-like odor is related to the presence of ammonia, not urochrome; pH levels (below or above normal) are related to acidity or alkalinity, not directly to urochrome concentration.
5. Conclude that excessive amounts of urochrome would most likely result in a dark yellow color, as urochrome is the pigment responsible for urine's yellow hue.

Key Concepts

Urochrome

Urochrome is a pigment that gives urine its characteristic yellow color. It is a byproduct of the breakdown of hemoglobin from red blood cells. The concentration of urochrome can vary based on hydration levels; higher concentrations typically indicate dehydration, resulting in darker urine.

Urine pH

The pH of urine indicates its acidity or alkalinity, typically ranging from 4.5 to 8.0. A lower pH (below normal) suggests more acidic urine, which can occur due to high protein diets or metabolic conditions, while a higher pH (above normal) may indicate a vegetarian diet or urinary tract infections.

Urine Odor

The odor of urine can provide insights into its composition and potential health issues. A strong ammonia-like odor may indicate concentrated urine, often due to dehydration or the presence of certain metabolic byproducts. Changes in urine odor can also signal infections or dietary influences.