What is meant by adsorbtion?

Adsorption is a surface phenomenon where molecules of a substance, referred to as the adsorbate, gather on the surface of another substance, known as the adsorbent. This process creates a film or layer of the adsorbate on the adsorbent's surface. It's important to note that adsorption is different from absorption, where one substance is incorporated into another. In adsorption, the concentration of the adsorbate is usually higher on the surface of the adsorbent than in the bulk of the adsorbate. This process is used in many applications, including in water purification, air conditioning, and in chemical reactions in industry.