The surface tension of $n$-octadecane was studied in the vicinity of the bulk melting point using both the maximum bubble pressure and Wilhelmy plate methods. The bubble surfaces were found to be supercooled below the surface freezing point. The onset of surface freezing is indicated by a sharp drop in surface tension at a constant temperature. This transition is accompanied by an increased film stability resulting in longer bubble lifetimes at the liquid surface. Variations in bubble lifetime reflect changes in the interfacial mechanical properties of the film from liquidlike to solidlike.

• Received 16 August 1999

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevLett.84.698