But even if we measure the receding contact angle, the parameter estimates would still be inaccurate. This is because the surface properties get modified as soon as a liquid drop is put on it. And by measuring the contact angles it is the property of modified surface we are estimating instead of that of the native surface. Further, the surrounding vapor also has a significant effect. Some surfaces might even chemically react with the probe liquid. For example, bio-surfaces are extremely fragile and might even solubilize when brought in contact with a liquid.
Having measured the three surface properties, the total interfacial tension for that surface can be computed. Further the contact angle a liquid makes with the surface can also be computed from the Young’s equation.