This paper is focused on the Marangoni effect in the gas-liquid mass transfer systems. A series of experiments were conducted to observe Marangoni effect by a laser Schlieren system. Experimental investigations of the occurrence of Marangoni convection were presented. The typical polygonal patterns and even the reaching of chaotic interfacial flow were observed. The visual evidences were discussed and the characteristic time and scale of Marangoni convection were obtained approximately as 0. 5 s and 1 mm according to the Schlieren images. From the perspective of hydrodynamic instability, the mechanism of the Marangoni convection was investigated. Though many external factors have influence on the interfacial instability, the local surface-tension gradient is the primary reason for the Marangoni convection. The small-scale interfacial flow increases the surface renewal rate. Consequently, due to the occurrence of the Marangoni effect, the mass transfer rate can be significantly enhanced.