Adsorption fundamentals — Conventional adsorption is generally considered a...

Introduction:
Adsorption involves the accumulation of molecules at a solid or liquid surface. Conventional physisorption is dominated by weak interactions and is characterized by equilibria that can be reversed by changing conditions such as concentration or temperature.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Physisorption context (van der Waals, hydrogen bonding).
• Isothermal operation or known isotherm behavior.
• Absence of strong chemisorption with irreversible bonding.

Concept / Approach:
Physisorption exhibits equilibrium isotherms (e.g., Freundlich, Langmuir). Because the binding is not covalent, desorption is possible by dilution, heating, or pressure swing, making the process reversible in the engineering sense.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Identify interaction type: weak, noncovalent for conventional adsorption.Relate to isotherms: surface coverage follows equilibrium relationships.Conclude reversibility under appropriate operating changes.

Verification / Alternative check:
Temperature-programmed desorption and pressure swing adsorption cycles demonstrate recoverable capacity, confirming reversibility of standard adsorption processes.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Irreversibility is more typical of strong chemisorption or reactive adsorption.
• Claiming non-thermodynamic or no equilibrium contradicts observed isotherm behavior.

Common Pitfalls:
Conflating physisorption with chemisorption; ignoring hysteresis that can occur due to pore structure yet does not preclude overall reversibility.

Final Answer:
reversible process