Question

Why are powdered substances more effective adsorbents than their crystalline forms?

Answer 1

Absorption is a surface phenomenon.The extent of adsorption depends on the surface area. Therefore, adsorption is directly proportional to the surface area.Increase in the surface area of the adsorbent, increases the total amount of gas adsorbed.A finely divided substance like nickel, platinum & porous substances like charcoal ,silica gel provides large surface area but crystalline substances has less surface as compared to finely divided substances, as a result powered substances are more effective adsorbents than their crystalline forms.

Answer 2

Answer:

Finely divided small size particles provide a large surface area compared to a large particle. Hence adsorption is to a greater extent. This increases the catalytic activity to a greater extent.