Question

In the adsorption of acetic acid on activated charcoal the acetic acid is an
A. Adsorber
B. Absorber
C. Adsorbent
D. Adsorbate

Answer 1

Hint: In order to solve this question we will use the concept of adsorption .Adsorption is a process where a gas, liquid is absorbed by a solid surface. Using this concept we will know that what is the role of acetic acid in the process of adsorption of acetic acid on activated charcoal.

Complete Step by Step Solution:
In the process of adsorption the species which get adsorbed is called adsorbate and the adsorption medium is called as adsorbent. Thus if for the adsorption of acetic acid on activated charcoal the acetic acid is an adsorbate and charcoal is an adsorbent.
Thus the correct option is D.

Additional Information:
By changing the type of adsorbate and adsorbent we can get different types of colloidal systems. Such colloidal systems are as follows-
The colloidal system consisting of a liquid adsorbent in a solid adsorbate is termed as gel. Here dispersion of liquid takes place in solid substances. Example of gel is cold cream.
The suspension of liquid or solid particles in gas is called aerosol. The examples of aerosol are fog, mist etc.
The dispersion of one liquid in another liquid is called emulsion. Here the two liquids must be immiscible. The examples of emulsion are egg yolk, butter.
The dispersion of gas in solid or liquid is called foam. Examples of foam are soap bubbles and whipped cream.

Note: The process of holding gas, liquid or solid molecules on solid is called as adsorption. There are two types of adsorption present. One of these is physical adsorption and another one is chemical adsorption. All the colloids undergoes adsorption.