Scientific Concepts Flashcards
7 cards from real Cosmetology Test practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Scientific Concepts flashcards as text
What is the main active ingredient in most sodium hydroxide (lye) hair relaxers?
Answer: Sodium hydroxide
Sodium hydroxide is the active ingredient in lye relaxers; it has a very high pH (above 12) that permanently straightens hair by breaking disulfide bonds.
Which term describes the process of a substance passing from a higher concentration to a lower concentration across a semi-permeable membrane?
Answer: Osmosis
Osmosis is the movement of a solvent through a semi-permeable membrane from a region of lower solute concentration to higher solute concentration.
What type of melanin produces red and yellow pigment in hair?
Answer: Pheomelanin
Pheomelanin produces the red, yellow, and orange tones found in naturally red and blonde hair.
In cosmetology, what does the term 'emulsification' refer to?
Answer: The blending of two immiscible liquids into a stable mixture
Emulsification is the process of mixing two liquids that normally don't blend, like oil and water, using an emulsifying agent.
Which nail structure contains blood vessels and nerves and is located beneath the nail plate?
Answer: Nail bed
The nail bed lies directly beneath the nail plate and contains blood vessels and nerves that nourish the nail.
What is the purpose of hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) in a two-part hair color system?
Answer: To oxidize the color molecules and develop the color
Hydrogen peroxide acts as the oxidizing developer that activates the color molecules and allows them to develop and deposit in the cortex.
Which of the following best describes a surfactant's role in shampoo?
Answer: It lowers the surface tension of water to lift dirt and oil
Surfactants are amphiphilic molecules that reduce surface tension, allowing water to interact with and remove oils and debris from the hair.