There are various applications of adsorption in chemical analysis. Some of which are given below :
(a) In thin layer chromatography: The lower adsorption particles comes out readily while another having higher adsorbing tendency comes out later. On this basis compounds are separated or analysed.
(b) In adsorption indicators : Surface of certain precipitate has an ability to adsorb some dyes to produce a characteristic colour e.g., AgX adsorbs eosin dye and thereby producing a characteristic colour at the end point.
(c) In qualitative analysis : Specific material has specific adsorption tendency so particular ion can be identified very easily.
(d) In the separation of inert gases : Different inert gases are adsorbed to different extents at different temperatures on coconut charcoal. This forms the basis of their separation from a mixture.