Question

Which of the following forces is involved in physical adsorption?

(a) Gravitational force

(b) Magnetic force

(c) Van der Waals force

(d) Electromagnetic force

This question was posed to me by my college director while I was bunking the class.

I need to ask this question from Surface Chemistry in portion Surface Chemistry of Chemistry – Class 12

Answer 1

Right answer is (c) Van der Waals force

Best explanation: In physical adsorption, the molecules of the adsorbate stick to the surface of the adsorbent due to very weak forces which is known as Van der Waals force. Van der Waals force is similar to the forces that cause condensation of gas into liquid.