Question

Sorption is the phenomenon: (a) reverse of adsorption (b) reverse of absorption (c) when adsorption and absorption takes place simultaneously (d) none of these

Short answer

Sorption is the phenomenon when adsorption and absorption take place simultaneously, which corresponds to option (c).

Step-by-step solution

Understanding Sorption

Sorption is a general term that encompasses both adsorption and absorption processes. Adsorption is the process by which atoms, ions or molecules adhere to a surface, whereas absorption involves a substance being taken up into the volume of another substance, such as a liquid absorbing a gas.

Identifying the correct definition

By understanding the individual processes of adsorption and absorption, it can be determined that sorption is the phenomenon that describes when both adsorption and absorption take place simultaneously, rather than being the reverse of either process.

Choosing the correct option

The correct statement is therefore that sorption represents simultaneous adsorption and absorption. The answer to the question is option (c), when adsorption and absorption takes place simultaneously.

Key concepts

Adsorption

Adsorption is a surface phenomenon where particles, such as atoms, ions, or molecules, from a gas, liquid, or dissolved solid, adhere to a surface. This process creates a film of the adsorbate on the surface of the adsorbent. Adsorption is exothermic, which means it releases heat.
Unlike absorption, where a substance is uniformly distributed throughout another, adsorption involves only the surface layers. For instance, when using a carbon filter to purify water, the impurities adhere to the surface of the carbon, illustrating adsorption. Students preparing for competitive exams like JEE Chemistry should understand that adsorption is essential in catalysis, a chemical process used to speed up reactions, among various other applications.

Absorption

Absorption, unlike adsorption, refers to the process in which one substance is taken up into the volume of another substance. This can be a physical or chemical process and involves the entire volume of the absorptive medium, not just its surface.
A common example is when a sponge absorbs water; the water is not just on the surface—it permeates the entire structure of the sponge. In the context of JEE Chemistry preparation, understanding the difference between absorption and adsorption is key for fully grasping how different materials interact and how these interactions can be harnessed in chemical processes.

Chemical Processes

Chemical processes involve transformations of substances through breaking and forming of chemical bonds, leading to changes in composition, structure, properties, and energy within a chemical system. These can include processes like absorption, adsorption, oxidation, reduction, and catalysis.
Students should understand that in adsorption and absorption, intermolecular forces play a significant role. Adsorption frequently involves van der Waals forces or chemical bonding, whereas absorption is governed by processes like diffusion. Grasping these concepts is crucial for students because they are not only fundamental to chemistry as a whole but are also frequently tested in exams like the JEE for Chemistry, which assesses understanding of these principles in a variety of contexts.

JEE Chemistry Preparation

For effective JEE Chemistry preparation, understanding the principles of adsorption and absorption is essential. These concepts are fundamental to the Physical Chemistry section of the JEE examination, which often includes questions on surface chemistry and related chemical processes.
To prepare well, students should focus on practicing problems related to sorption phenomena, studying the kinetic and thermodynamic aspects of adsorption, and understanding the underlying mechanisms of absorption. Clarifying these core concepts will enable students to solve complex problems and enhance their analytical skills, both of which are crucial for excelling in JEE Chemistry.