Imbibition

Imbibition is a special type of diffusion when water is absorbed by solids-colloids causing an enormous increase in volume. Examples include the absorption of water by seeds and dry wood. If imbibition is carried out in an isotropic medium with a uniform concentration gradient, it leads to swelling of the medium. This is also known as water absorption.

Process of Imbibition

The process of imbibition is initiated when water is absorbed by the hydrophilic colloids, which leads to an increase in volume. This process is influenced by the affinity between the adsorbent and the liquid. The greater the affinity, the greater the rate of imbibition. The process of imbibition is also influenced by the temperature and the pressure of the system.

Examples of Imbibition

Some examples of imbibition include the swelling of seeds and dry wood upon exposure to water. In the case of seeds, imbibition is critical for the initiation of germination. The dry seed takes up water, which leads to the swelling and breaking of the seed coat, and ultimately the emergence of the radicle. In the case of dry wood, imbibition causes the wood to swell, which can cause structural damage if the wood is a part of a building or a piece of furniture.

Importance of Imbibition

Imbibition is important in various biological processes. It is crucial for the germination of seeds, and it also plays a role in the movement of water in plants. In addition, imbibition is also important in cooking, as it is the process that allows dry food items like rice and pasta to absorb water and become edible.

See Also

• Diffusion
• Germination
• Hydrophilic
• Affinity
• Temperature
• Pressure

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