The Effect of Droplet Size on Surface Tension

Abstract

The effect of droplet size on surface tension is given theoretical consideration with the help of results of the Gibbs thermodynamic theory of capillarity and of previous results of the author as to the sign and magnitude of superficial densities. It is concluded that surface tension can be expected to decrease with decrease in droplet size over a wide range of circumstances. In addition, approximate figures are obtained for the rate at which such decreases may be expected. The decreases become significant for very small drops. The results are of interest in view of the important role of surface tension in determining the behavior of small droplets.