Step 1: Concept
Spreadability is the ease with which a semisolid preparation can be spread over the skin or affected area.
Step 2: Meaning
Higher spreadability ensures a more uniform application and better patient compliance.
Step 3: Analysis
Pastes and hydrophobic ointments are thick and stiff, making them hard to spread. Gels consist of a liquid phase within a 3D polymeric network, providing low resistance and very high spreadability compared to greasy bases.
Step 4: Conclusion
Gels are characterized by having the highest spreadability among the listed semisolid dosage forms.
Final Answer: (C)