Washington Master Esthetics Practice Exam

What term defines linking monomers to create larger molecules with less penetration ability?

1. Synthesis

2. Polymerization

3. Hydrolysis

4. Reticulation

The correct answer is: Polymerization

Polymerization is the term that refers to the process of linking monomers, which are the small building blocks, to form larger, more complex molecules known as polymers. This process is essential in various fields, including chemistry and materials science, as it allows for the transformation of simple, small-scale substances into larger, more functional macromolecules. During polymerization, the properties of the resulting polymer, including its size and penetration ability, are greatly altered as it becomes a larger entity. In the context of esthetics, larger molecules that result from polymerization typically have reduced ability to penetrate the skin compared to their smaller monomer counterparts. This characteristic is often utilized in the formulation of various skincare products, where larger molecules may serve to provide a protective barrier rather than deeply penetrate the skin. The other terms, while related to chemistry, do not accurately describe the linking of monomers in the same way. For instance, synthesis is a general term for forming a compound from simpler substances but does not specifically imply the linking of monomers. Hydrolysis refers to the chemical breakdown of compounds due to reaction with water, which is quite the opposite of the process of creating larger molecules. Reticulation often refers to forming a network structure and is not specifically related