PSI Texas State Board Nail Tech practice exam

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Prepare for the Texas State Nail Tech Exam. Ace your exam with our multiple-choice questions and flashcards, complete with hints and detailed explanations.

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What is the structural material that makes up the natural nail?

Collagen
Keratin
Chitin
Calcium

The correct answer is: Keratin

The correct answer is keratin, which is the primary structural material that constitutes the natural nail. Keratin is a type of protein that is incredibly strong and resilient, providing nails with their shape and durability. It is a fibrous protein that is also found in other parts of the body, including hair and skin, contributing to their protective properties. Nails are composed of hard keratinized cells that form a tough barrier, protecting the underlying nail bed and enhancing the overall strength of the nail structure. This ability to withstand daily wear and tear while remaining flexible is a key characteristic of keratin. In contrast, collagen is more prominent in connective tissues and serves different functions, such as providing support and strength to skin, tendons, and ligaments, but it does not make up the structure of the nail itself. Chitin is a tough, protective substance seen in the exoskeletons of arthropods, not in human anatomy, while calcium is essential for overall nail health but serves more as a mineral that contributes to the hardness of bones and teeth rather than being a structural component of the nail.