Which term describes the release of a previously adsorbed substance from a surface?

Which term describes the release of a previously adsorbed substance from a surface?

• A. Absorption
• B. Adsorption
• C. Adsorbate
• D. Desorption

Answer: (D)

Desorption is the release of a previously adsorbed substance from a surface. Adsorption is when molecules stick to a surface, while absorption is when they are taken into the interior of a material. The substance that has been held on the surface is called the adsorbate. Desorption occurs when those surface-bound molecules detach, often due to changes in temperature, pressure, or chemical conditions. This concept is important in techniques like gas purification and chromatography, where controlling desorption affects the behavior of the system.

Desorption is the release of a previously adsorbed substance from a surface. Adsorption is when molecules stick to a surface, while absorption is when they are taken into the interior of a material. The substance that has been held on the surface is called the adsorbate. Desorption occurs when those surface-bound molecules detach, often due to changes in temperature, pressure, or chemical conditions. This concept is important in techniques like gas purification and chromatography, where controlling desorption affects the behavior of the system.