NIC Barber Written (Theory) ExamScientific ConceptsHard
A barber is preparing a chemical solution for a hair service. The product label states it is an 'acidic' formula with a pH of 3.5. What type of chemical reaction is characteristic of solutions with this pH level?
- AOxidation
- BNeutralization
- CAcidic hydrolysis
- DAlkaline reduction
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Acidic hydrolysis
Solutions with a pH below 7 are acidic. In hair chemistry, acidic solutions often facilitate hydrolysis reactions, particularly acidic hydrolysis, which can break down protein bonds, especially peptide bonds, though less aggressively than alkaline hydrolysis.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Oxidation can occur at various pH levels but is not the primary characteristic reaction of an acidic solution on hair.
- B. Neutralization occurs when an acid and a base combine, not a characteristic reaction of an acidic solution alone.
- D. Alkaline (basic) solutions cause reduction; pH 3.5 is acidic.
Acidic Hydrolysis
A chemical reaction where water is used to break down chemical bonds, catalyzed by the presence of an acid (low pH). In hair, it can affect peptide bonds.
- Occurs at low pH (acidic conditions).
- Breaks down molecular bonds with water.
- Relevant in some hair treatments, less damaging than alkaline hydrolysis.
Memory trick: Acids are for Hydrolysis, Bases are for Reduction/Swelling.