Abstract: A method of determining surface properties of interest of a surface. The method comprises providing a magnetic liquid and applying it onto a part of the surface in the form of a droplet. The droplet contacts the surface and it is subjected to a magnetic field. The lateral position of the magnetic field maximum is changed relative to the surface to drag the drop magnetically along a predetermined length of the surface following a path. The retentive force exerted on the droplet during its movement is measured in order to collect data as the drop moves along the surface, and the surface properties of interest are determined from the collected data. The method can be used for studying wetting properties and, in one embodiment, the method is used for assessing homogeneity and potential contamination of a surface.