Water potential gradient between the absorbent and the liquid imbibed is essential for imbibition. In addition, for any substance to imbibe any liquid, one of the following is also a prerequisite.
(a) Affinity between the adsorbant and the liquid
(b) Molecular density of the adsorbant
(c) Concentration of the adsorbant
(d) Pressure potential of the adsorbant
