Concept:
Specific gravity is defined as the ratio of the density of a substance to the density of water at a specified temperature. In dairy science, it is an important parameter used to detect adulteration and assess milk quality.
Step 1: Understanding milk density.
Milk is denser than water due to dissolved solids like lactose, proteins, and minerals.
Step 2: Standard reference value.
At 60°F (15.6°C), the normal specific gravity of cow milk lies in a narrow range:
\[
1.028 \text{ to } 1.030
\]
Step 3: Analysis of options.
• 1.028 to 1.030 → Standard accepted range
• 1.035 to 1.037 → Too high, not typical for cow milk
• 0.98 to 1.0 → Less than water, incorrect
• 1.039 to 1.043 → Extremely high, unrealistic
Step 4: Conclusion.
Hence, the correct range is 1.028 to 1.030.