Adsorb vs Absorb

"Adsorb" and "absorb" are two words that are often confused with each other, but they have different meanings and uses.

"Absorb" refers to the process of taking in a substance or energy through pores, interstices, or other physical spaces. For example, a sponge absorbs water, or a person absorbs information.

"Adsorb," on the other hand, refers to the process of attracting and holding molecules or particles of a gas or liquid on the surface of a solid material. This phenomenon occurs because of the attractive forces between the surface of the solid and the molecules of the gas or liquid.

To clarify, "absorb" involves the substance going inside the material, while "adsorb" involves the substance adhering to the surface of the material.

For example, zeolite can adsorb impurities from water, while a towel can absorb water.