Physisorption

{
  "id": "MLC-T-CHM-013403",
  "term": "Physisorption",
  "field": "Chemistry",
  "definition": "The weak, reversible binding of atoms or molecules to a surface through intermolecular forces, such as van der Waals interactions. Unlike chemisorption, physisorption does not involve the formation of chemical bonds, and the electronic structure of the adsorbate is only slightly perturbed. The enthalpy of physisorption is low, usually in the range of 20 to 40 kJ/mol, which is comparable to the enthalpy of condensation for the adsorbate.",
  "synonyms": [
    "physical adsorption",
    "van der Waals adsorption"
  ],
  "subject": "Physical and Biophysical Chemistry",
  "see_also": [
    "adsorption",
    "intermolecular",
    "van der Waals forces"
  ],
  "references": [
    "PAC, 1972, 31, 577. 'Manual of Symbols and Terminology for Physicochemical Quantities and Units, Appendix II: Definitions, Terminology and Symbols in Colloid and Surface Chemistry' on page 586 (https://doi.org/10.1351/pac197231040577)",
    "PAC, 1976, 46, 71. 'Manual of Symbols and Terminology for Physicochemical Quantities and Units - Appendix II. Definitions, Terminology and Symbols in Colloid and Surface Chemistry. Part II: Heterogeneous Catalysis' on page 75 (https://doi.org/10.1351/pac197646010071)"
  ],
  "url": "https://mlchart.com/terminology/chemistry/physisorption/"
}