What's the Difference Between 'Absorb' and 'Adsorb'?
In this blog post we look at when to use absorb and when to use adsorb.
'Absorb' or 'Adsorb'?
Absorb and adsorb are two words that are often confused because they are spelled similarly and have similar pronunciation. However, they have different meanings and uses.
Absorb means to take in or soak up something, such as a liquid or gas, or to incorporate something into one's being or understanding. Absorb is typically used to describe the process of a substance being taken up or taken in by another substance or material.
Adsorb means to attach or adhere to a surface, especially through chemical or physical means. Adsorb is typically used to describe the process of a gas or liquid attaching to the surface of a solid or liquid through an attractive force.
Examples of Absorb in a Sentence
Here are 10 sentences using "absorb":
-
The sponge easily absorbed the water.
-
The plant absorbed nutrients from the soil through its roots.
-
He absorbed the information in the textbook quickly.
-
The body absorbs vitamins and minerals from the food we eat.
-
The paper towel absorbed the spilled milk.
-
The paint absorbed into the porous surface of the wood.
-
The material absorbed the sound waves, reducing the noise level.
-
The fabric absorbed the sweat from his skin.
-
She absorbed the culture and traditions of the foreign country during her travels.
-
The company absorbed the smaller company into its business operations.
Examples of Adsorb in a Sentence
Here are 10 sentences using "adsorb":
-
The gas adsorbed onto the surface of the activated carbon.
-
The liquid adsorbed onto the surface of the solid.
-
The protein adsorbed onto the surface of the nanoparticle.
-
The dye adsorbed onto the fiber of the fabric.
-
The contaminant adsorbed onto the surface of the soil.
-
The molecule adsorbed onto the surface of the crystal.
-
The gas adsorbed onto the surface of the metal.
-
The water vapor adsorbed onto the surface of the desiccant.
-
The ink adsorbed onto the surface of the paper.
-
The bacteria adsorbed onto the surface of the biofilm.
