From the maximal extrapolated film pressure pi(max) values for n-octane and n-propanol, the dispersion and non-dispersion components of the surface free energy of galena precoated with potassium ethyl xanthate (collector) were estimated and they were then correlated with the floatability of galena. The collector layer deposited by methanol evaporation did not produce any significant changes in the surface free energy of galena. Polymolecular adsorption of the collector occurred from aqueous solution. The adsorbed collector layer of similar to 8 statistical monolayers in thickness produced a considerable decrease in the dispersion component of the surface free energy and complete disappearance of non-dispersion interactions. At this surface coverage, a certain change in the properties of the adsorbed layer appeared which was probably connected with the formation of polymolecular layers containing dixanthogen. The work of the water adhesion being significantly lower than the work of water cohesion appeared insufficient to achieve a high floatability of galena.