Definition

A substance that is attracted to and holds onto the surface of another material.

Example

The adsorbate formed a thin layer on the surface of the catalyst.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of the term adsorbate?

Yeah, isn’t it related to substances that stick to surfaces?

Exactly! It’s fascinating how an adsorbate can affect chemical reactions.

For sure! I love learning about how different materials interact.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Adsorbate → It is formed from "ad-" (meaning to) and "sorbere" (meaning to swallow or absorb). The term refers to a substance that is adsorbed onto a surface, indicating that it is taken up or attracted to that surface.

Memory Tip

Think of a substance being 'taken to' ('ad-') a surface and 'swallowed' ('sorbere') by it — that's what an adsorbate is.

Visually Confused Words