What is the Difference Between Absorption and Adsorption?

The main difference between absorption and adsorption lies in the way substances interact with each other. Here are the key differences between the two processes:

• Absorption:
• Involves the mass transfer of particles into another material, forming a solution.
• Occurs when molecules pass into a bulky material, such as a liquid or solid.
• The absorbed molecules cannot be easily separated from the absorbent.
• Examples include a paper towel absorbing water or gases being absorbed into liquids.
• Adsorption:
• Involves the adhesion of particles onto the surface of a substance.
• Occurs when atoms, ions, or molecules from a substance (gas, liquid, or dissolved solid) adhere to a surface of the adsorbent.
• The adsorbed molecules can be easily removed.
• Examples include adsorption chillers used with refrigerants, water purification, or adsorption cooling used in air conditioning.

In summary, absorption is a process where molecules are taken up by a material and dispersed throughout the material, forming a solution. Adsorption, on the other hand, is a process where molecules adhere to the surface of a material without forming a solution.

Comparative Table: Absorption vs Adsorption

Here is a table comparing the differences between absorption and adsorption:

In summary, absorption occurs when a substance is dissolved in a liquid or gas, while adsorption takes place when molecules of one substance stick to the surface of another substance. Adsorption is a surface-based process, whereas absorption is a bulk process.