California Cosmetology Written ExamHaircoloringHard
A colorist is formulating a permanent color at a 1:1.5 ratio (color to developer). If the formula calls for 2 ounces of color, how many total ounces of the mixed formula will result?
- A4 ounces total
- B3 ounces total
- C6 ounces total
- D5 ounces total
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. 5 ounces total
At a 1:1.5 ratio, 2 ounces of color requires 2 × 1.5 = 3 ounces of developer. Adding the 2 ounces of color to the 3 ounces of developer gives a total mixed formula of 2 + 3 = 5 ounces.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. 4 ounces would result from a 1:1 ratio, not 1:1.5
- B. 3 ounces is only the developer amount, not the total mixture
- C. 6 ounces would require a 1:2 ratio, not 1:1.5
Color Mixing Ratios
The proportion of color to developer specified by manufacturers, used to calculate correct formula volumes.
- Common ratios: 1:1, 1:1.5, 1:2
- Total volume = color amount + developer amount
- Developer amount = color amount × ratio multiplier
Memory trick: Multiply color by the ratio number to find developer, then add both together