What does sorption mean?
Sorption is a technical noun describing the process in which a substance is taken up by another. It functions as an umbrella term for adsorption, in which molecules attach to the surface of a material, and absorption, in which they enter and are incorporated into its bulk. The distinction matters because the two processes depend on different physical and chemical properties. Sorption is commonly discussed in connection with activated charcoal, catalysts, soils, sediments, and environmental pollution, where researchers measure how much material a substance can retain. Terms such as “sorption capacity” and “sorption isotherm” describe measurable aspects of the process. Although “sorption” is well established in scientific writing, it is less common in general speech, where “absorption” or “adsorption” is usually more precise.
nounThe process by which one substance becomes attached to or taken up by another, especially by adsorption or absorption. In chemistry, it is used as a general term covering both processes.
- The general process of a substance being taken up by another, especially through adsorption or absorption.
- The attachment of molecules from a fluid phase onto the surface of a solid or liquid.
- The uptake of a substance into the bulk of another material.
"The sorption of pollutants by activated charcoal is widely used in water-filtration systems."
"Charcoal is effective in the sorption of organic compounds from contaminated water."
"The experiment measured gas sorption on the surface of the catalyst."
Plural is uncommon because the term is normally used in the singular for the general process or a particular kind of uptake.
"The two sorptions were compared under identical temperature and pressure conditions."
Sorption is the umbrella process behind two familiar opposites: adsorption holds molecules on a surface, while absorption draws them into the material.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does sorption come from?
Sorption entered English in the early 19th century from Latin sorptio, a noun derived from sorbere, meaning “to suck in” or “to absorb.” Its English relatives include absorb and adsorption, which combine the same Latin root with different prefixes. The suffix therefore expresses the general process of taking up a substance, while prefixes specify whether it enters a material or attaches to its surface.
Related word forms
How sorption is actually used
This is primarily a technical term used in chemistry, environmental science, and related fields. Because it encompasses both absorption and adsorption, a more specific term is preferred when the mechanism is known.
Easily confused with sorption
Absorption is the incorporation of a substance into the bulk of another material, whereas sorption is broader and also includes adsorption onto a surface.
Adsorption is the attachment of molecules to a surface, while sorption is the general term for either surface adsorption or bulk absorption.