Which statement about powder weight and compression in wet granulation is correct?

• A. Heavier powder makes compression harder
• B. Heavier powder makes compression easier
• C. Powder weight has no effect
• D. Heavier powder prevents granulation

Answer: (B)

The main idea is how the mass per unit volume of the powder (bulk density) influences how a powder compacts during wet granulation. When powder is heavier, it has higher bulk density, meaning more material sits in the same die volume. That closer packing and higher initial solid fraction allow particles to come into contact and deform or bond more readily under the same compression; moisture from wet granulation also helps form capillary bridges between particles, strengthening the compact. So, for a given compression force, a heavier powder generally densifies and strengthens more easily, making compression easier.

The idea that heavier powder would make compression harder would require less contact or more friction, which isn’t typical for higher bulk density. Saying powder weight has no effect ignores the role of packing density in compression. And claiming heavier powder prevents granulation isn’t accurate—granulation depends on moisture, binder, and process conditions, not simply on powder weight.