Adsorbent: meaning, definitions and examples

This entry seems to be an error, as 'adsorbent' has already been defined.

An absorbent is a material that soaks up liquids or gases throughout its entire volume. It is commonly used in everyday products like sponges, diapers, and paper towels.

• This towel is very absorbent; it quickly dries surfaces.
• The diaper's absorbent material keeps the baby dry.

A desiccant is a substance that absorbs moisture from the air, thereby keeping the surrounding environment dry. It is often used in packaging and storage to prevent moisture damage.

• Silica gel packets are used as desiccants in shoe boxes to keep moisture out.
• The museum placed desiccants in the display cases to protect the artifacts from humidity.

A sorbent is a general term that includes both absorbents and adsorbents. It refers to materials that can collect liquids or gases through either absorption or adsorption.

• During the oil spill cleanup, sorbents were deployed to collect the oil from the water.
• Sorbents play a critical role in industrial spill response by collecting various types of fluids.