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adsorption equilibrium

Adsorption equilibrium occurs when a material’s surface captures particles from a surrounding fluid (like a gas or liquid) at the same rate that those particles leave the surface. Think of it as a balance: particles stick to the surface as quickly as they jump off. When these rates are equal, the amount of particles on the surface remains steady. This state depends on factors like temperature and concentration. Understanding this balance helps in designing filters, catalysts, and detectors, where controlling how and when particles stick or leave a surface is essential for optimal performance.