Question

Gas masks containing activated charcoal to remove poisonous gases from the atmosphere make use of the phenomenon of ______.

Options

• adsorption

• absorption

• sorption

• desorption

Answer 1

Gas masks containing activated charcoal to remove poisonous gases from the atmosphere make use of the phenomenon of adsorption.

Explanation:

Gas masks containing activated charcoal remove poisonous gases by the phenomenon of adsorption, where the gas molecules get deposited on the surface of the activated charcoal (adsorbent). This process is a surface phenomenon, unlike absorption, which involves penetration into the bulk. The activated charcoal adsorbs toxic gases like CH₄, Cl₂, SO₂, thereby purifying the air for breathing.