Question:medium

Which of the following is false regarding adsorption?

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The surface area of the adsorbent is critical; smaller particle sizes increase the surface area and enhance the adsorption capacity.
Updated On: Mar 28, 2026
  • "Adsorption is the process where particles are attracted to the surface of another material."
  • "The adsorbate binds directly to the adsorbent surface."
  • "Particle size of the adsorbent will not affect the amount of adsorption."
  • "Adsorption can be physical or chemical."
Show Solution

The Correct Option is C

Solution and Explanation

The correct statement is: "Adsorbent particle size influences the quantity of adsorption."

Explanation:

  • False Premise: The assertion that "adsorbent particle size does not impact the amount of adsorption" is incorrect. In reality, particle size is a critical determinant of adsorption.
  • Particle Size Impact: Smaller adsorbent particles possess a greater surface area. This increased surface area offers more adsorption sites, thereby enhancing the adsorption capacity. Consequently, reducing particle size amplifies the adsorption amount.
  • Surface Area and Adsorption Correlation: Adsorption is inherently a surface-dependent process. A larger surface area on the adsorbent facilitates more adsorption. Particles with smaller dimensions exhibit a higher surface area-to-volume ratio, boosting their adsorption efficacy.

Additional Influencing Factors:

  • Adsorbent Properties: The chemical characteristics of the adsorbent, such as its polarity and surface charge, also play a role in adsorption effectiveness.
  • Temperature: Temperature effects vary; physical adsorption typically diminishes with increasing temperature, while chemisorption may increase.
  • Adsorbate Concentration: Higher adsorbate concentrations generally lead to greater adsorption, up to the point of saturation.

Thus, adsorbent particle size does affect the adsorption amount, invalidating the initial statement.

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