Step 1: Concept
Adsorption refers to the adhesion of atoms, ions, or molecules from a substance (gas, liquid, or dissolved solid) on the surface of another substance. This process can be either exothermic or endothermic depending on the nature of the adsorbent and adsorbate.
Step 2: Meaning
Exothermic processes release heat to the surroundings, while endothermic processes absorb heat from the surroundings. Isothermal processes occur at a constant temperature.
Step 3: Analysis
To determine whether adsorption is always exothermic, endothermic, isothermal only, or non-spontaneous, we need to understand the thermodynamics involved in this process:
1. Exothermic Adsorption: This occurs when energy is released during the adsorption process. The heat of adsorption (ΔH) is negative.
2. Endothermic Adsorption: This happens when energy is absorbed during the adsorption process, making ΔH positive.
3. Isothermal Process: This means that the temperature remains constant throughout the process.
Adsorption can be either exothermic or endothermic depending on the specific conditions and substances involved. However, it does not necessarily have to be isothermal only as the temperature can change during the adsorption process. Adsorption processes are often spontaneous under certain conditions due to the release of energy (exothermic nature), but this is not always the case.
Step 4: Conclusion
Given that adsorption can be either exothermic or endothermic, and it does not have to be isothermal only, we conclude that the statement "The process of adsorption is always" cannot be universally true for all types of adsorption processes. However, in many practical cases, especially when considering the common adsorption phenomena observed in chemical reactions, adsorption tends to be exothermic.
Final Answer: (A)