Several factors influence interfacial energy: 1. Chemical Composition: The nature of atoms and molecules at the interface determines the strength and type of interactions, such as van der Waals forces or hydrogen bonding. 2. Surface Roughness: The physical texture of a surface can alter interfacial energy by changing the contact area between phases. 3. Temperature: Increased temperature can reduce interfacial energy by enhancing molecular motion and reducing the strength of intermolecular forces.