Question

From the following, identify the favorable conditions for physical adsorption:

• I) Large surface area
• II) Low temperatures
• III) High temperatures
• IV) High pressures

• A. III, IV only
• B. I, III, IV only
• C. I, II & IV only
• D. I, II & IV only

Hint:

Physical adsorption is usually favored at low temperatures and high pressures, with a larger surface area available for the adsorbate.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

- I) Large surface area: This is correct. A large surface area increases the adsorption capacity, which is favorable for physical adsorption.
- II) Low temperatures: This is correct. Low temperatures are favorable for physical adsorption because they decrease the kinetic energy of the adsorbate molecules, making adsorption easier.
- III) High temperatures: This is incorrect. High temperatures generally favor desorption rather than adsorption because molecules have more kinetic energy at high temperatures, leading to less adsorption.
- IV) High pressures: This is correct. High pressures increase the concentration of adsorbate molecules, which enhances physical adsorption by bringing the molecules closer to the surface.
Thus, the correct conditions for physical adsorption are I, II, and IV, making option (4) the correct answer.