Nail Technology Program

Chapter 11: Monomer Liquid & Polymer Powder

Acrylic Chemistry, Application & Removal|37 Questions|Board Exam Prep

Student Name

Date

Instructor

Score

Vocabulary Matching

Match each numbered term with the correct lettered definition.

Terms

1.Monomer

2.Polymer

3.Polymerization

4.Catalyst

5.Initiator

6.Mix ratio

7.Exothermic reaction

8.Inhibition layer

9.Primer

10.Odorless acrylic

Definitions

A.A single molecule unit (the liquid) that joins with others to form a polymer chain

B.A chemical reaction that releases heat as monomer and polymer bond together

C.A substance added to the powder that starts the chemical chain reaction when mixed with liquid

D.A long chain of molecules formed when many monomers join together (the powder)

E.The correct proportion of liquid to powder needed to create a workable bead

F.A chemical process in which monomer molecules link together to form solid polymer

G.A product applied to the natural nail to improve adhesion between the nail and acrylic

H.A tacky residue on the surface of cured product caused by oxygen exposure during curing

I.A substance that speeds up a chemical reaction without being consumed by it

J.A monomer liquid with reduced vapors that requires more filing to shape because it sets harder

Fill in the Blank

Complete each statement with the correct term or phrase.

Question 11Fill in the Blank

When monomer liquid and polymer powder are combined, they undergo a chemical reaction called .

Question 12Fill in the Blank

The ideal acrylic bead consistency is often described as a ratio, meaning the bead holds its shape without being too wet or too dry.

Question 13Fill in the Blank

A bead that is too will be difficult to control, run into the cuticle area, and result in a weak, porous enhancement.

Question 14Fill in the Blank

The is the substance added to the polymer powder that triggers the polymerization process when it contacts the monomer liquid.

Question 15Fill in the Blank

Acrylic nails are removed by soaking in to dissolve the polymerized product.

Question 16Fill in the Blank

A fill or service is performed every 2-3 weeks to maintain acrylic nails as the natural nail grows out.

Question 17Fill in the Blank

The heat a client may feel during acrylic application is caused by the reaction as the product cures.

Question 18Fill in the Blank

Odorless acrylic products require more to shape because they cure harder than traditional monomers.

Multiple Choice

Select the best answer for each board-exam style question.

Question 19Multiple Choice

The monomer liquid used in acrylic nail systems is primarily composed of:

A. Acetone

B. Ethyl methacrylate (EMA)

C. Methyl methacrylate (MMA)

D. Cyanoacrylate

Question 20Multiple Choice

A dry bead (too much powder, not enough liquid) will result in:

A. A smooth, self-leveling application

B. Poor adhesion, lumps, and a weak, air-filled enhancement

C. A runny bead that floods the cuticle

D. A longer working time

Question 21Multiple Choice

Methyl methacrylate (MMA) is prohibited in many states because it:

A. Dries too slowly

B. Bonds too aggressively to the nail, causing damage upon removal and allergic reactions

C. Is too expensive for salons

D. Has no odor

Question 22Multiple Choice

The purpose of an acid-free primer in acrylic application is to:

A. Dissolve the natural nail for better bonding

B. Create a bond between the natural nail and the acrylic without etching the nail plate

C. Speed up the curing process

D. Add color to the enhancement

Question 23Multiple Choice

Where should the apex (thickest point) of the acrylic nail be placed?

A. At the cuticle area

B. At the free edge

C. At the stress area, where the free edge meets the nail bed

D. Evenly distributed across the entire nail

Question 24Multiple Choice

Which zone of acrylic application typically uses the smallest bead?

A. Zone 1 (free edge)

B. Zone 2 (stress area / apex)

C. Zone 3 (cuticle area)

D. All zones use the same size bead

Question 25Multiple Choice

Proper ventilation during acrylic application is important because:

A. It helps the acrylic cure faster

B. Monomer vapors can cause respiratory irritation and sensitization over time

C. It prevents the powder from clumping

D. It keeps the room cool for client comfort

Question 26Multiple Choice

During a fill service, the nail technician should:

A. Remove all old acrylic and start fresh each time

B. File the new growth area, apply primer, and add fresh product to fill the gap

C. Apply new acrylic over the old without any preparation

D. Only apply top coat to the new growth

True / False

Mark each statement as True or False.

Question 27True / False

Ethyl methacrylate (EMA) is the safe, industry-standard monomer used in professional acrylic systems.

True

False

Question 28True / False

A wet bead has too much powder and not enough liquid.

True

False

Question 29True / False

The polymerization of acrylic is an exothermic reaction that produces heat.

True

False

Question 30True / False

Primer should be applied in thick coats for maximum adhesion.

True

False

Question 31True / False

MMA (methyl methacrylate) is considered safe and is widely approved for use on nails.

True

False

Question 32True / False

Acrylic nails should be removed by prying them off with a nail tool for speed.

True

False

Question 33True / False

The three-zone application method places the largest bead at zone 2 (the stress area) for structural strength.

True

False

Question 34True / False

Odorless acrylic systems produce no vapors at all and do not require ventilation.

True

False

Short Answer

Answer each question in 2-3 complete sentences.

Question 35Short Answer

Explain the difference between a wet bead, a medium bead, and a dry bead. Which consistency is ideal and why?

Question 36Short Answer

Why is MMA (methyl methacrylate) prohibited in many states, and how does it differ from EMA (ethyl methacrylate)?

Question 37Short Answer

Describe the three-zone method of acrylic application and explain why the apex should be built at zone 2.