Step 1: Recall tablet manufacturing defects.
Tablets can suffer from several physical defects during or after compression. Each defect has a specific name and cause.
Step 2: Define lamination.
Lamination is the separation of a tablet into two or more distinct horizontal layers. It looks like the tablet is splitting apart in parallel planes.
Step 3: Common cause of lamination.
Lamination usually happens due to air entrapment in the granules, over-compression, or poor binding. When the punch is released, the trapped air expands and separates the layers.
Step 4: Differentiate from other defects.
Sticking means the tablet adheres to the punch face. Capping is when the top or bottom crown of the tablet separates (partial separation at the crown, not the full horizontal layer). Mottling is uneven colour distribution on the tablet surface.
Step 5: Confirm.
The complete separation of one or more layers of a tablet is specifically called lamination.
Answer: Option (2) — Lamination