An absorption column is a type of equipment used in chemical engineering to separate components from a gas mixture. It operates by allowing the gas to flow upward through a column while a liquid absorbent flows downward. The gas components interact with the liquid, leading to the absorption of specific substances, which can then be removed for further processing. These columns are commonly used in various industries, including petrochemical and environmental engineering, to capture pollutants or recover valuable materials. The efficiency of an absorption column depends on factors like temperature, pressure, and the properties of the absorbent used.