The action of polymerized silicic acid on lecithin and cephalin monolayers brings about changes in its physical state, molecular area, and pressure of collapse. These changes are more notable in the case of lecithins, varying not only with the substrate pH, but also with the length of the hydrocarbon chains of the fatty acids that esterify glycerol in the molecules of these substances. The different actions observed between silicic acid and the lecithin and cephalin monolayers are explained with the help of different models. © 1981 Dr. Dietrich Steinkopff Verlag.