Q. Which of the following is true in respect of adsorption?

A) $\mathrm{\Delta}G < 0;\mathrm{\Delta}S > 0;\mathrm{\Delta}H < 0$
B) $\mathrm{\Delta}G < 0;\mathrm{\Delta}S < 0;\mathrm{\Delta}H < 0$
C) $\mathrm{\Delta}G > 0;\mathrm{\Delta}S > 0;\mathrm{\Delta}H < 0$
D) $\mathrm{\Delta}G < 0;\mathrm{\Delta}S < 0;\mathrm{\Delta}H > 0$
Explanation

(b)
Adsorption is an exothermic process and hence, $\mathrm{\Delta}H$ is negative for adsorption. On the other hand the molecules of the adsorbate are held on the surface of the adsorbent and hence, they have lesser tendency to move about freely. In other words entropy decreases i.e.,$\mathrm{\Delta}S$is negative. According to Gibbs-Helmholtz equation,$\ \mathrm{\Delta}G = \mathrm{\Delta}H - T.\mathrm{\Delta}S$
Thus, for the process of adsorption to occur $\mathrm{\Delta}G\$must be negative. Hence, for adsorption
$\mathrm{\Delta}G < 0;\mathrm{\Delta}S < 0;\mathrm{\Delta}H < 0$

Dr. Abubacker
Reviewed by Dr. Abubacker

Physics Educator & NEET/JEE Specialist

Ph.D. in Physics with 19+ years of teaching experience.