Adsorbent
Adsorbent
Adsorbent (pronounced ad-sorb-ent) is a substance that has the ability to adsorb other substances onto its surface. The term is derived from the Latin word "adsorbere", meaning "to suck in".
Etymology
The term "adsorbent" comes from the Latin "ad-", meaning "to", and "sorbere", meaning "to suck in". It was first used in the early 20th century to describe substances that could attract and hold other substances on their surface.
Definition
An adsorbent is a solid substance that is used to collect solute from a solution by adsorption. The process of adsorption involves the accumulation of atoms, ions, or molecules from a gas, liquid, or dissolved solid on a surface. This creates a film of the adsorbate (the molecules or atoms being accumulated) on the adsorbent's surface.
Types of Adsorbents
There are several types of adsorbents, including:
- Activated carbon: This is a highly porous form of carbon with a high surface area that makes it an excellent adsorbent. It is often used in water and air purification, as well as in the adsorption of organic substances and gases.
- Silica gel: This is a form of silicon dioxide that is highly porous and can adsorb a large amount of water, making it useful as a desiccant.
- Zeolites: These are minerals that have a micro-porous structure, making them effective adsorbents for gases and liquids.
- Alumina: This is a porous form of aluminum oxide that is used as an adsorbent and desiccant.
Related Terms
- Adsorption: This is the process by which atoms, ions, or molecules from a substance (it could be gas, liquid, or dissolved solid) adhere to a surface of the adsorbent.
- Desorption: This is the process by which adsorbed material is removed from a surface.
- Sorption: This is a general term for the processes of adsorption and absorption.
- Absorbent: This is a material that absorbs liquid or gas into its structure, which is different from adsorption where the substance is adhered to the surface.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Adsorbent
- Wikipedia's article - Adsorbent
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