Surfactants are molecules that are amphiphilic, meaning they have both hydrophilic (water-attracting) and hydrophobic (water-repelling) parts. These molecules are able to reduce the surface tension of liquids, allowing them to spread more easily and form stable emulsions. Surfactants are commonly used in a wide range of applications, including in cleaning products, personal care products, pharmaceuticals, and in various industrial processes. Research in surfactants focuses on understanding their molecular structure and properties, developing new and more effective surfactants, studying their interactions with other molecules and surfaces, and exploring their potential applications in various fields.