INBDE (Integrated National Board Dental Examination) Practice Exam

What is the light needed to initiate polymerization?

1. 468nm

2. 325nm

3. 550nm

4. 410nm

The correct answer is: 468nm

Polymerization is a process in which small molecules, called monomers, join together to form larger molecules, called polymers. This process is commonly used in industries such as plastics manufacturing and printing. In order for polymerization to occur, a specific type of light is needed as an energy source. This light is known as "initiator light". The correct wavelength of initiator light for most polymerization reactions is 468nm. This wavelength is specifically chosen because it has the energy required to start the polymerization process. It is important to note that while the other options may also emit light at different wavelengths, they do not have the required energy to initiate polymerization and would therefore not be effective in this process. So, the correct answer is A 468nm because it is the specific wavelength of light needed for initiator light in polymerization reactions.