What type of mortar and pestle is recommended for mixing liquids and semisolids?

The glass mortar and pestle are recommended for mixing liquids and semisolids due to their smooth surface and non-reactive properties. Glass is inert, which means it will not chemically interact with the substances being mixed, ensuring that the integrity and effectiveness of the compounds remain intact. This makes it ideal for compounding medications, especially when dealing with active pharmaceutical ingredients that may be sensitive to other materials.

In addition, the smooth surface of a glass mortar allows for easy mixing and uniform dispersion of ingredients, which is particularly important when preparing suspensions or ointments. The clarity of glass also allows the pharmacist to observe the consistency and homogeneity of the mixture more easily.

Other materials, such as wood, plastic, or stone, may not provide the same level of performance for this type of task. Wooden mortars can absorb liquids, impacting measurements and contamination risks. Plastic may be subject to static electricity that can carry powders away and might not be suitable for all medications. Stone, while durable, can have a rougher surface that might not mix liquids and semisolids effectively. Thus, glass stands out as the best option for this purpose.