
Thermodynamics of adsorption
Thermodynamics of adsorption describes how molecules from a fluid phase (like gas or liquid) stick to a solid surface. It involves energy changes: adsorption typically releases energy, making it favorable, and depends on temperature, pressure, and the surface's properties. Key factors include the balance between the attractive forces pulling molecules to the surface and the thermal energy that might cause them to leave. Understanding these energy interactions helps in designing and optimizing processes like filtration, catalysts, and pollution control, where controlling how substances adhere to surfaces is crucial for efficiency and effectiveness.