Page 12 - Pharmaceutics III_ 02-06-01304_Fall 2025_ Pharm D_Electronic book
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Short Assay Questions on Powders and Granules
1. Differentiate a powder from a granule based on their typical particle size range in
pharmaceutical manufacturing. 1. 2. 3.
2. Provide two specific applications where a powder is an ideal dosage form for a particular
patient population or clinical need. 1. 2. 3.
3. Explain why a patient suffering from severe pain would prefer a powdered dosage form
over a standard tablet. 1. 2. 3.
4. Define the size reduction technique of trituration and state the primary tool used for
small-scale trituration in a pharmacy. 1. 2. 3.
5. Define levigation and name two common levigating agents used in small-scale
preparation of ointments and suspensions. 1. 2. 3.
6. Explain the concept of an eutectic mixture in pharmaceutical powders and its effect
when the ingredients are mixed together. 1. 2. 3.
7. What is the recommended technique for mixing potent drugs in a pharmacy setting, and
what principle must be employed to ensure even distribution? 1. 2. 3.
8. Briefly compare random mixing and ordered mixing in terms of the relative particle size
and adhesive characteristics of the powders involved. 1. 2. 3.
9. Describe the primary problem that occurs in free-flowing mixtures (e.g., during powder
transfer) and name one technique to minimize this issue. 1. 2. 3.
10. Differentiate between a hygroscopic powder and a deliquescent powder based on their
interaction with atmospheric moisture. 1. 2. 3.
11. Name two bulky powder adsorbents that can be used to manage the potential
liquefaction problem associated with eutectic powders. 1. 2. 3.
12. What special packaging and additive would be recommended when dispensing a
powder mixture containing ammonium bromide? 1. 2. 3.
13. Define an efflorescent powder and state one management strategy that utilizes an
anhydrous form of the drug. 1. 2. 3.
14. Why is a small particle size range (specifically 1 to 5 μm) critical for aerosol powders
administered via Dry Powder Inhalers (DPIs)? 1. 2. 3.
15. What is the key distinction between a bulk powder and a divided powder regarding dose
accuracy and patient involvement in measurement? 1. 2. 3.
16. Provide two reasons why a topical powder intended for application to an open wound or
broken skin must be sterilized. 1. 2. 3.
17. State two distinct advantages that granules offer over fine powders in the context of
large-scale pharmaceutical manufacturing and machine handling. 1. 2. 3.
18. Name the three primary chemical components (two acids and one base) typically found
in effervescent salts. 1. 2. 3.
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