Describes what happens when a molecule from a fluid phase (gas or liquid) lands on the surface of a solid and stays, if only for a short while Adsorb is different from absorb (which see)
To collect a substance on a surface; for example, protein molecules are adsorbed onto the surface of particles of silica gel
A chemical process where a molecule attaches loosely to the surface of another phase, without becoming incorporated into that phase
(verb) The collection of one substance on the surface of another, usually by electrostatic or van der Waals forces Examples: dust adsorbed on a table; garlic odor being adsorbed onto a jacket A pie thrown at the face of a clown is adsorbed by the clown Compare to "absorb"
A process where one element held in solution is attracted to and clings to another element In gold and silver processing the precious metals within the slurry in the leach tanks are adsorbed onto granules of activated carbon