The enthalpy change for the adsorption process and micelle formation respectively are
Solution
<p>Adsorption is the process of a substance (adsorbate) being attracted to a surface (adsorbent). The enthalpy change for adsorption, $\mathrm{\Delta H_{ads}}$, is negative because the adsorbent and adsorbate are brought closer together, which releases energy.</p>
<p>Micelle formation is the process of surfactant molecules clustering together in water to form micelles. The micelles have a hydrophobic (water-repelling) core and a hydrophilic (water-loving) surface. The enthalpy change for micelle formation, $\mathrm{\Delta H_{mic}}$, is positive because the surfactant molecules are moving from a state of high entropy (dispersed in water) to a state of low entropy (clustered together).</p>
<p>Here is a table summarizing the enthalpy changes for adsorption and micelle formation:</p>
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<thead>
<tr>
<th class="tg-1wig">Process</th>
<th class="tg-1wig">Enthalpy change</th>
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<tr>
<td class="tg-0lax">Adsorption</td>
<td class="tg-0lax">$\mathrm{\Delta H_{ads} < 0}$</td>
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<tr>
<td class="tg-0lax">Micelle formation</td>
<td class="tg-0lax">$\mathrm{\Delta H_{mic} > 0}$</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
About this question
Subject: Chemistry · Chapter: Surface Chemistry · Topic: Adsorption
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