X-ray scattering and surface tension measurements reveal the formation of a crystalline monolayer on the surface of liquid n-alkanes at about 3 °C above the bulk solidification temperature. The molecules in the monolayer are hexagonally packed and oriented normal to the surface. The single solid monolayer persists down to the bulk solidification temperature, thus exhibiting a very limited partial wetting.

• Received 17 November 1992

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevLett.70.958