Desorption vs. Sorption — What's the Difference?

Desorption is a phenomenon whereby a substance is released from or through a surface. The process is the opposite of sorption (that is, either adsorption or absorption).

Sorption is a physical and chemical process by which one substance becomes attached to another. Specific cases of sorption are treated in the following articles: Absorption – "the incorporation of a substance in one state into another of a different state" (e.g., liquids being absorbed by a solid or gases being absorbed by a liquid); Adsorption – the physical adherence or bonding of ions and molecules onto the surface of another phase (e.g., reagents adsorbed to a solid catalyst surface); Ion exchange – an exchange of ions between two electrolytes or between an electrolyte solution and a complex.The reverse of sorption is desorption.

The release of an adsorbed substance from a surface

Absorption and adsorption considered as a single process.

To release (something) through pores or interstices.

The process of sorbing.

To remove (an absorbed or adsorbed substance) from.

The state of being sorbed.

The process in which atomic or molecular species leave the surface of a solid and escape into the surroundings; the reverse of absorption or adsorption.

(sciences) Either of the processes of absorption and adsorption; sorbing.

Changing from an adsorbed state on a surface to a gaseous or liquid state

The process in which one substance takes up or holds another (by either absorption or adsorption)