Definitions
- Referring to the process of either adsorption or absorption. - Describing the uptake of molecules or particles onto a surface or interface. - Talking about the interaction between a solid and a gas or liquid.
- Referring to the process of sorption where molecules or particles adhere to a surface. - Describing the attraction of molecules or particles to a solid surface. - Talking about the accumulation of a substance on the surface of a solid or liquid.
List of Similarities
- 1Both involve the uptake of molecules or particles onto a surface.
- 2Both are important processes in environmental remediation.
- 3Both can be studied using surface science techniques.
What is the difference?
- 1Definition: Sorption is a more general term that includes both adsorption and absorption. Adsorption specifically refers to the adherence of molecules or particles to a surface.
- 2Mechanism: Adsorption involves the attraction of molecules or particles to a surface, while absorption involves the uptake of molecules or particles into a bulk material.
- 3Surface: Adsorption occurs only on the surface of a solid or liquid, while absorption occurs throughout the bulk material.
- 4Application: Adsorption is commonly used in water treatment and air purification, while absorption is commonly used in drug delivery and separation processes.
- 5Examples: Sorption is a more general term and can refer to either adsorption or absorption, while adsorption specifically refers to the adherence of molecules or particles to a surface.
Remember this!
Sorption and adsorption are related terms that describe the uptake of molecules or particles onto a surface. Sorption is a more general term that includes both adsorption and absorption, while adsorption specifically refers to the adherence of molecules or particles to a surface. Adsorption is an important process in water treatment and air purification, while absorption is commonly used in drug delivery and separation processes.
