Step 1: Understanding the sieve number.
In the Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP), sieve numbers are used to categorize the size of particles. For fine powders, particles are expected to pass through sieves with higher numbers, indicating smaller particle sizes.
Step 2: Analyzing the options.
(A) 44: This is incorrect as it represents a larger sieve number than 50.
(B) 50: Correct — Fine powders typically pass through sieve number 50, which represents a finer particle size.
(C) 85: This sieve number would be for even finer particles but not typically for powders classified as fine.
(D) 10: This sieve number is too coarse for fine powders.
Step 3: Conclusion.
The correct answer is (B) 50 as it corresponds to the sieve number for fine powders.