ClimateAugust 31, 2026

adsorbed

ad-SORBD

Definition

The process by which atoms, ions, or molecules from a gas, liquid, or dissolved solid adhere to a surface.

Etymology

Derived from the Latin 'ad-' (to) and 'sorbere' (to suck in). It was coined in the late 19th century to distinguish the surface-level attachment of substances from 'absorption,' which involves taking substances into the interior volume of a material.

In the news

In the article, the term describes how contaminants physically attach to soil particles, which the remediation technology then works to release into a liquid solution for easier removal.

Forever Chemicals, Finite Timelines: A Different Approach to PFAS Remediation

Read the full article ↗

The Environment Journal

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