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Sorption: meaning, definitions and examples

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sorption

 

[ sษ”หrหˆpสƒษ™n ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

science process

Sorption refers to the process by which one substance becomes attached to another. This process can involve either absorption, where a substance is taken up into the interior of another substance, or adsorption, where a layer of molecules adheres to the surface of a solid or liquid. Sorption is a crucial concept in chemistry, environmental science, and various industrial applications.

Synonyms

absorption, adsorption, attachment.

Examples of usage

  • The sorption of contaminants in soil.
  • Gas sorption analysis is a common technique.
  • The efficiency of sorption depends on the material.

Etymology

The term 'sorption' is derived from the prefix 'sor-', which comes from the Latin word 'sorbere', meaning 'to swallow up', and the suffix '-ption', which relates to the act or process of something. It emerged in the mid-20th century to encompass both absorption and adsorption processes into a single term, reflecting the growing complexity and interrelatedness of these phenomena in scientific studies. Sorption has become a foundational concept in various fields, including chemical engineering, environmental science, and material science, where understanding the interactions between different substances is essential for developing effective solutions to complex problems.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #16,774, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.