An algorithm used to model this process developed by members of WUSTL’s Gelb lab incorporates tetrominoes as proxies for molecules. Chemical species must first enter a “precursor state” before participating in this process, according to a theory developed by Paul Kisliuk. The enthalpy of this process is plotted against reaction rate in a volcano plot. One form of this process, which is dependent on the vapor pressure of the participating molecules, is studied in (*) BET (“B-E-T”) theory. The Langmuir isotherm is another model used to examine this process, which concerns the formation of monolayers. Due to their high surface areas, porous materials such as zeolites and activated charcoal are effective at conducting this process. For 10 points, name this process in which molecules adhere to a solid surface. ■END■
ANSWER: adsorption [or adsorbing; accept enthalpy of adsorption or heat of adsorption; accept physical adsorption; accept chemisorption; prompt on heterogeneous catalysis or being catalyzed with “catalysis is being driven via what physical process?”; reject “absorption” or “absorbing”]
<Ezra Santos, Chemistry>
= Average correct buzz position