Desorb Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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desorb
[dɪˈsɔːrb ]
Definition
science process
Desorb refers to the process by which a substance is released from or goes out of a surface. This term is commonly used in chemical and physical contexts, especially regarding adsorption, where molecules adhere to a surface and desorption is the reverse process.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The gas molecules can desorb from the surface when heated.
- During the experiment, the solute began to desorb from the solid phase.
- The researchers monitored how quickly the contaminants would desorb from the soil.
- In the presence of solvent, the compound tends to desorb into the liquid phase.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Science
- Desorption is a key process in environmental science, where pollutants can be released from soil back into air or water.
- In material science, this process is crucial for developing sensors that detect and measure gases in the air.
- Biological systems use desorption during the digestion process, where nutrients are released from food in the body.
Applications
- Desorption is utilized in air purification technologies where pollutants are collected and then released for disposal.
- In the field of chromatography, desorption is an essential step in separating and analyzing chemical mixtures.
- It plays a role in various pharmaceutical processes, particularly in drug delivery systems where medications are released in the body.
Psychology
- In behavioral contexts, desorption can metaphorically describe the process of 'letting go' of negative memories or feelings.
- Therapeutic techniques often focus on desorbing emotional attachments, similar to how materials desorb from surfaces.
- Research in cognitive psychology explores how experiences can be 'desorbed' from the mind through various methods.
Literature
- In literary symbolism, desorption can reflect themes of release, such as letting go of the past to embrace the future.
- Authors may use desorption as a metaphor for emotional healing, illustrating characters' journeys of moving on.
- Poets might describe feelings as substances being desorbed, conveying complex emotions in a tangible way.
Origin of 'desorb'
Main points about word origin
- The term comes from 'de-' meaning removal, and 'sorb' which relates to the absorption process.
- It was first used in the context of chemistry in the late 19th century as scientists explored gas and liquid interactions.
- The term is often paired with 'adsorb', which means to adhere to a surface rather than being absorbed.
The term 'desorb' is derived from the prefix 'de-', meaning 'down from' or 'un-' and the root 'sorb,' which comes from the Latin word 'sorbere,' meaning 'to soak up' or 'to absorb.' The concept of adsorption versus desorption is fundamental in various scientific fields, particularly in chemistry and materials science. Adsorption involves the accumulation of molecules on a surface, while desorption entails their release back into the surrounding environment. This terminology has been in use since the early 20th century as researchers began to investigate surface phenomena and the interactions between adsorbates and their substrates, highlighting the importance of surface chemistry in industrial and laboratory applications.