Indiana PSI Nail Technician Practice Test

Which of the following is an example of a catalyst used in gel nail enhancements?

1. Bonding gel

2. Isopropyl alcohol

3. Oligomer

4. UV light

The correct answer is: UV light

In the context of gel nail enhancements, the correct choice is UV light, which acts as a catalyst in the curing process of gel products. UV light is essential for initiating a chemical reaction that causes the gel to harden or cure. When UV light is applied to gel nail products, it triggers the photoinitiators present in the gel formula, leading to the polymerization of the gel and ultimately creating a solid, durable finish on the nails. While other options like bonding gel and oligomer are important components in the gel application process, they do not function as catalysts in the same way that UV light does. Bonding gel aids in adhesion to the natural nail, and oligomers are part of the gel formulation that contributes to the structure but does not have a catalytic role in curing. Isopropyl alcohol, primarily a disinfectant and cleaning agent, also does not participate in the curing process or catalyst role either. Understanding the specific roles of these components helps clarify why UV light is recognized as the catalyst in gel nail enhancements.