Which of the following statements is true about paste?

The statement about paste being usually thicker than ointment and absorbed slower is accurate. Paste is a semisolid preparation that typically contains a higher concentration of solid particles and a lower proportion of liquid, which gives it a more viscous and thicker consistency compared to ointments. This texture makes paste suitable for creating a barrier on the skin, offering prolonged contact and slower absorption than ointments.

Ointments, on the other hand, contain a higher proportion of oil and have a more spreadable texture, allowing them to be absorbed more readily upon application. Therefore, the characteristics of paste—its thickness and slower absorption—are key points that underline its specific uses in dermatological treatments and other applications where a protective barrier is desired. The other options do not accurately represent the properties or uses of paste.