The properties of chalcopyrite were studied by the methods of cyclic voltammetry, potentiometry, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and various techniques of the evaluation of wettability. Results of an experimental study of the potential and pH dependencies of the various characteristics of chalcopyrite hydrophobicity: detachment force, contact angle, gas evolution pressure and floatability, are discussed. It is shown that the detachment force/potential polarization curves are similar in shape for the case of the absence of xanthate and for the presence of all xanthates studied. The electrochemical polarization leads to generation of hydrophilic compounds and increases wettability of the mineral. A formation of the hydrophilic layer of iron hydroxide is a reason for decrease of hydrophobicity and floatability under oxidative conditions. Xanthate desorption leads to hydrophilisation of the mineral surface and depression under flotation in the cathodic area.