What is the process of spatulation primarily used for in compounding?

Spatulation is primarily utilized in compounding to combine powdered substances with liquids, often to create a uniform mixture. This technique involves using a spatula to physically blend and manipulate the powders and liquids on a flat, non-absorbent surface, like a glass plate. The gentle folding or spreading action of spatulation helps ensure that the powders dissolve or disperse evenly within the liquid, achieving a more consistent and homogenous formulation.

While combining powered substances with liquids is vital for obtaining a solution or suspension, other techniques like trituration or mortar and pestle grinding might be preferred for achieving finer particle sizes or for other specific characteristics. The other options, although related to compounding processes, do not accurately reflect the main purpose of spatulation. For example, measuring precise quantities involves weighing techniques, mixing multiple liquids without separation usually requires a different method, and creating a solid form from a liquid typically refers to processes like evaporation or lyophilization rather than spatulation.