Abstract: Micelle formation is a characteristic property of surfactants. The Critical Micelle Concentration (CMC) of a surfactant is one of the most important characteristics to know about a specific surfactant molecule. But why are micelles so important? The equilibrium between individual surfactant molecules (monomers) and micelles can be understood as a phase separation, similar to the saturation vapor pressure of a liquid. Using thisconceptual model, many unexpected behaviors of surfactants, from surface tension minima and adsorption maxima to hydrogel stability and precipitate re-dissolution can be easily explained.
