Definition

The process where atoms or molecules detach from a solid surface and enter the surrounding area; it is the opposite of absorption or adsorption.

Example

Desorption is an important step in the process of cleaning surfaces in various industrial applications.

Conversation

I was reading about desorption in my chemistry textbook yesterday.

Oh really? What did it say about it?

It explained how desorption is the opposite of absorption, which is pretty interesting.

That makes sense! I always found those processes fascinating.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Desorption is formed from "de-" (meaning down or away) and "sorbere" (meaning to suck or absorb). The word describes the process of a substance being released or removed from a surface, effectively meaning to suck away from.

Memory Tip

Think of something being 'sucked away' ('de-' means down or away, and 'sorbere' means to absorb) — that's what desorption means.

Visually Confused Words