Physical adsorption is a \(\quad\) process. (a) reversible (b) irreversible (c) exothermic (d) none of these

Short Answer

Expert verified
Physical adsorption is a reversible process, so the answer is (a) reversible.

Step by step solution

01

Understand the terms

Firstly, understand what each term means. \nReversible process refers to a process that can go back and forth between states along exactly the same path. Irreversible process is one that cannot be undone or reversed. Exothermic process is a process that releases heat into the environment. None of these would mean that none of the other options are applicable.
02

Understand Physical Adsorption

Physical adsorption, also called physisorption, is a process in which molecules are held on a surface due to weak van der Waals forces. This type of adsorption typically happens at low temperatures, and increases as the temperature decreases. If the temperature increases, the adsorbed molecule can gain enough energy to overcome these forces and desorb.
03

Find out the process type of Physical Adsorption

Based on the description in Step 2, physical adsorption is a process that can happen or be undone depending on the circumstances, particularly temperature. Therefore, it's a reversible process.

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