What role does a suspending agent serve in liquid formulations?

In liquid formulations, a suspending agent plays a crucial role in preventing the settling of particles. When solid particles are dispersed in a liquid, there is a natural tendency for these particles to settle at the bottom due to gravity, which can lead to an uneven distribution of the active ingredients in the formulation. A suspending agent interacts with the particles and the liquid, creating a network that keeps the particles uniformly distributed throughout the solution. This is particularly important for maintaining the consistency and effectiveness of medications or cosmetic products, ensuring that the user receives the correct dosage or benefits with each use.

The other options, while they touch on different aspects of liquid formulations, do not accurately describe the primary function of a suspending agent. Promoting flavor pertains more to taste-enhancing ingredients, increasing viscosity involves thickening agents that may or may not keep particles suspended, and enhancing absorption of active ingredients refers to specific excipients that facilitate the body's uptake of these ingredients, rather than the primary role of a suspending agent.