Cosmetology · Basic Chemistry of Products

A substance with a pH below 7 is classified as:

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Correct answer

Acidic

A Neutral
B Inert
C Acidic
D Alkaline

Why this is the answer

A substance with a pH below 7 is acidic; the lower the number, the more strongly acidic it is. Substances with a pH above 7 are alkaline (basic), and pH 7 is neutral. In cosmetology, acidic products tend to contract and harden the hair cuticle (for example, acid-balanced or normalizing products), while alkaline products swell and open it (for example, many relaxers and some color). Correctly classifying substances as acidic, neutral, or alkaline by pH is essential basic chemistry for the exam.

Source: Scientific Concepts — Acidic pH

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About this topic: Basic Chemistry of Products

Basic chemistry of products covers matter, elements and compounds, pH and the pH scale, acids and alkalis, oxidation and reduction, and how these ideas explain what shampoos, colours and chemical services actually do to the hair. This is one of 9 Scientific Concepts questions on basic chemistry of products, each with a full explanation on a single study page.

New to this exam? Our Cosmetology exam guide explains the format, scoring, and how to prepare.

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A substance with a pH below 7 is classified as:

Why this is the answer

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About this topic: Basic Chemistry of Products

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