In adsorption, a plot of the equilibrium concentration of sample in the mobile phase per unit volume vs. the concentration in the stationary phase per unit weight. The shape of the adsorption isotherm can determine the chromatographic behavior of the solute: tailing. Fronting, overload, etc.

A plot of the equilibrium concentration of sample in the mobile phase per unit volume versus the concentration in the stationary phase per unit weight in adsorption chromatography. The shape of the adsorption isotherm can determine the chromatographic behavior of the solute; for example, peak tailing, peak fronting, and column overload.