Which of the following statements is true with respect to the extent o...
Explanation:
Physisorption is a type of adsorption in which the adsorbate molecules are held onto the surface of the adsorbent by weak Van der Waals forces. The extent of physisorption can be influenced by various factors. Among the given options, the statement that is true with respect to the extent of physisorption is that it decreases with an increase in temperature.
Reasons:
1. Effect of Temperature:
- At low temperatures, physisorption is more favorable because the adsorbate molecules have lower kinetic energy and can easily be attracted to the surface of the adsorbent.
- As the temperature increases, the kinetic energy of the adsorbate molecules also increases, causing them to move more rapidly.
- The increased kinetic energy makes it more difficult for the adsorbate molecules to be held onto the surface by weak Van der Waals forces, leading to a decrease in the extent of physisorption.
2. Other Factors:
- The extent of physisorption is not affected by the surface area of the adsorbent (option B). Physisorption primarily depends on the nature of the adsorbate and the adsorbent, rather than the available surface area.
- The strength of Van der Waals forces does not directly affect the extent of physisorption (option C). Physisorption occurs due to weak Van der Waals forces, and the strength of these forces remains constant regardless of the strength of Van der Waals forces between the adsorbate and adsorbent.
- However, it is important to note that the strength of Van der Waals forces can indirectly influence the extent of physisorption if the strength of these forces affects the adsorbate-adsorbent interaction in a way that alters the overall adsorption process.
Therefore, the correct statement is option D - the extent of physisorption decreases with an increase in temperature.
Which of the following statements is true with respect to the extent o...
Physisorption is an exothermic process. According to Le-Chatelier’s principle, an exothermic reaction is favoured by a decrease in temperature. Therefore, the extent of physisorption decreases on increasing temperature.