Question

Hard gelatin capsules stored at 20% RH will

• A. Become brittle and crack
• B. Shrink
• C. Stick together
• D. Disintegration time increases

Hint:

Low humidity makes gelatin capsules brittle, while high humidity may make them soft and sticky.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Concept: 
Hard gelatin capsules contain moisture, which is necessary to maintain flexibility. 

Step 1: Meaning of RH. 
RH means relative humidity. It represents the amount of moisture present in air. 

Step 2: Effect of low RH. 
When capsules are stored at very low relative humidity, they lose moisture. 

Step 3: Result of moisture loss. 
Loss of moisture makes the gelatin shell dry and brittle. Brittle capsules can easily crack during handling. 

Step 4: Final answer. 
Therefore, hard gelatin capsules stored below 20% RH become brittle and crack. \[ \boxed{\text{Become brittle and crack}} \]