Which of the following can hinder the process of adsorption?

Humidity can indeed hinder the process of adsorption because it affects the availability of adsorption sites on the surface of a material. When moisture is present, it can occupy the surface area that would otherwise be available for the adsorbate (the substance being adsorbed). Water molecules may form a layer on the adsorbent material, which can block the access of other molecules trying to adhere to the surface, thus reducing the overall efficiency of the adsorption process. This is particularly relevant in air filtration processes where humidity levels can vary significantly, impacting filter performance.

Understanding the impact of humidity on adsorption is crucial, as it directly influences the effectiveness and selection of air filtration systems, especially in environments with fluctuating moisture levels. Factors like temperature gradients, particle size, and air pressure can also affect adsorption but in different ways that may not always hinder the overall process as directly as humidity does.