Surface Tension Theory explains how emulsifiers lower interfacial tension and promote droplet breakup. Which statement best reflects this theory?

• A. ALL statements are correct
• B. Only ONE statement is correct
• C. TWO statements are correct
• D. THREE statements are correct

Answer: (A)

Surface Tension Theory shows that emulsifiers work by lowering the interfacial tension between oil and water, which makes it easier to create new surface area as droplets are broken apart under shear. Lower interfacial tension reduces the energy required to form many small droplets, so breakup is more readily achieved and the overall droplet population becomes finer. At the same time, emulsifier molecules arrange at the interface to form a protective film around droplets, helping to prevent coalescence and thus stabilizing the emulsion. If the statements in the question each reflect these related outcomes—lower interfacial tension, easier breakup, and improved stability—then all of them describe aspects of the same theory. That’s why the option claiming that all statements are correct best reflects the theory.