Absorbointi

Absorbointi is a Finnish term that describes the process by which a substance takes in another substance, energy, or information. It is a general concept used across disciplines, including physics, chemistry, biology, and environmental science.

In physics and chemistry, absorption refers to the uptake of electromagnetic radiation or particles by matter. It is characterized by an absorption coefficient and, for light, by the Beer-Lambert law. Substances may absorb heat, sound, or photons, converting energy into internal energy or other forms of energy.

In biology and medicine, absorption denotes entry into a living organism or systemic circulation. Nutrient absorption from the gut, drug absorption through membranes, and respiratory absorption are influenced by surface area, chemical form, transport mechanisms (such as passive diffusion, active transport, and endocytosis), and interactions with other compounds.

In environmental science, absorption describes uptake of substances by soils, water, or biomass, contributing to pollutant fate and nutrient cycling. It is important to distinguish absorption from adsorption, which refers to adhesion to a surface.

In spectroscopy and materials science, absorption spectra reveal which wavelengths are absorbed, aiding identification and analysis. The term emphasizes the transfer of energy or matter from an external source into the absorbing medium.