Surface properties refer to the characteristics of a material's outer layer that influence how it interacts with its environment. These properties include texture, roughness, and chemical composition, which can affect adhesion, friction, and wetting behavior. For example, a smooth surface may repel water, while a rough surface can enhance grip. Understanding surface properties is crucial in various fields, such as materials science and engineering. They play a significant role in applications like coatings, adhesives, and biomaterials. By manipulating these properties, scientists can improve performance and functionality in products ranging from electronics to medical devices.