adsorption Definition
the process of a solid or liquid substance attracting and holding onto molecules of another substance, especially a gas.
Using adsorption: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "adsorption" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
Activated charcoal is known for its adsorption properties.
Example
The adsorption of carbon dioxide by plants is an important part of the carbon cycle.
Example
The adsorption of water molecules on the surface of a glass is what causes it to fog up.
adsorption Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for adsorption
Phrases with adsorption
a type of adsorption where the adsorbate forms a chemical bond with the adsorbent
Example
Chemisorption is used in catalysis to increase the rate of chemical reactions.
a type of adsorption where the adsorbate is held onto the surface of the adsorbent by weak van der Waals forces
Example
Physical adsorption is used in gas storage and separation applications.
a graph that shows the relationship between the amount of adsorbate on the surface of an adsorbent and the pressure or concentration of the adsorbate in the surrounding environment
Example
Adsorption isotherms are used to study the adsorption behavior of different materials.
Origins of adsorption
from ad- 'to' + sorbere 'suck in'
Summary: adsorption in Brief
'Adsorption' [ædˈsɔːpʃən] refers to the process of a solid or liquid substance attracting and holding onto molecules of another substance, especially a gas. It is used in various fields like chemistry, physics, and engineering. Adsorption can be physical or chemical, and is often studied using an adsorption isotherm. Examples of adsorption include activated charcoal's ability to adsorb impurities, and the adsorption of water molecules on a glass surface.
