California Cosmetology Practice Exam

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Prepare for your California Cosmetology State Board Exam with our comprehensive practice test. Featuring flashcards, multiple-choice questions, each with hints and explanations to reinforce your knowledge and confidence.

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What type of light is utilized in a UV sterilizer?

Infrared light
Visible light
Radio wave light
Ultraviolet light

The correct answer is: Ultraviolet light

A UV sterilizer uses ultraviolet light to disinfect and sterilize tools and equipment in the cosmetology field. Ultraviolet light is effective in killing bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens by damaging their DNA or RNA, preventing them from reproducing and causing infections. This makes UV light a preferred choice in settings where hygiene and sanitation are critical, such as salons and spas. Infrared light, visible light, and radio wave light do not possess the same germicidal properties as ultraviolet light. Infrared light is primarily used for heating, visible light is the light spectrum that is visible to the human eye and does not have sterilizing properties, and radio wave light is used for communication and does not interact with microorganisms to provide sterilization. Therefore, ultraviolet light is uniquely suited for this application, making it the correct answer.