Sorption is a process that refers to the combined processes of absorption and adsorption. It is the phenomenon where a substance is either absorbed or adsorbed onto a solid or liquid surface. Absorption involves the penetration or diffusion of a substance into the bulk of another substance, while adsorption occurs when a substance adheres to the surface of another substance.
Sorption is commonly observed in various scientific fields, including chemistry, physics, environmental science, and materials science. It plays a crucial role in processes such as filtration, purification, and separation of substances. The substance that is being sorbed may be a gas, liquid, or solid, whereas the sorbent can be a liquid or solid material.
The sorption process is influenced by various factors, including temperature, pressure, surface area, and chemical properties of the substances involved. These factors affect the extent and rate at which sorption occurs. For instance, an increase in temperature generally leads to an increase in the rate of sorption.
Sorption is widely employed in practical applications, including water treatment, air purification, gas separation, and drug delivery systems. In water treatment, sorption is used to remove contaminants such as heavy metals, organic compounds, and impurities. In gas separation, sorbents are used to selectively adsorb certain gases from a mixture. In drug delivery systems, sorption is utilized to control the release and absorption of medications in the body.
In summary, sorption is a process that encompasses both absorption and adsorption, where a substance adheres to a solid or liquid surface. It plays a significant role in various scientific and practical applications, particularly in filtration, purification, and separation processes.
