The wettability of a surface by a liquid is primarily determined by the angle of contact between the surface and the liquid. This angle is a measure of how a liquid droplet interacts with a solid surface and is a key factor in assessing wettability. Let's explore the concept further:
Angle of Contact: The angle of contact, also known as the contact angle, is the angle formed between the tangent to the liquid surface at the point of contact and the solid surface. It is a crucial parameter determining whether a liquid will wet a surface or not.
If the contact angle is less than 90 degrees, the liquid wets the surface well, meaning it spreads easily. If the contact angle is greater than 90 degrees, the liquid does not wet the surface well and tends to form beads.
Surface Tension: Although surface tension plays a role in the spreading of a liquid, it is not the primary factor governing wettability.
Viscosity: Viscosity is a measure of a liquid's resistance to flow and does not directly affect wettability.
Density: The density of a liquid is unrelated to its wettability and is chiefly concerned with mass per unit volume.
Hence, the correct answer is angle of contact between the surface and the liquid.