Desorption

/diːˈsɔːrpʃən/ noun

Definition

The process of removing absorbed or adsorbed molecules from a surface.

Etymology

From desorb + -tion (Latin suffix for action or process). Coined in the 20th century as chemistry needed vocabulary for processes reverse to absorption and adsorption.

Kelly Says

Desorption is why your deodorant eventually wears off—the aromatic molecules slowly desorb from your skin and escape into the air, and scientists can measure this using special instruments.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.