Question

Which of the following instrument is used to determine surface area and pore structure of pharmaceutical powders?

• A. Coulter counter
• B. Andrerson apparatus
• C. Quantasorb
• D. Optical microscopy

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

The question requires identifying an instrument used to determine the surface area and pore structure of pharmaceutical powders. Let's evaluate the given options:

1. Coulter counter: This instrument is designed to count and measure the size of particles in a suspension. It is primarily used for cell counting and particle size analysis, not for measuring surface area or pore structure.
2. Andrerson apparatus: A tool used in the pharmaceutical industry for particle separation in a multi-stage cascade impactor. It focuses on particle size distribution measurement rather than surface area or pore structure analysis.
3. Quantasorb: This is a specific instrument designed to measure the surface area and pore volume of granular and powdery substances. It operates using gas adsorption techniques, which are suitable for determining the surface area and pore structure.
4. Optical microscopy: A method that utilizes light and lenses to magnify small objects or surfaces. While it is useful for observing the physical structure and characteristics of substances, it is not suited for quantitative surface area measurements or detailed pore structure analysis.

Given the above evaluation, the correct answer is Quantasorb, as it explicitly serves the purpose of measuring surface area and pore structure through adsorption techniques.