Surface tensions and surface potentials of acid solutions

Abstract

A theory is presented which allows us to quantitatively calculate the excess surface tension of acid solutions. The H+, in the form of hydronium ion, is found to be strongly adsorbed to the solution-air interface. To account for the electrostatic potential difference measured experimentally, it is necessary to assume that the hydronium ion is oriented with its hydrogens pointing into the bulk water. The theory is quantitatively accurate for surface tensions and is qualitative for electrostatic potential difference across the air-water interface.