For The Centenary of Mesomorphism

Abstract

The significance and value of the scientific observations made by many of our predecessors in research have often come to be appreciated fully only after the elapse of many years. A most notable instance of this is provided by the work of F Reinitzer which led to his discovery of liquid crystals. This event was first reported in a paper¹ entitled “Zur Kenntnis des Cholesterins” submitted to the editor of the journal on 3rd May 1888. But who could have predicted then how very fruitful his studies would one day be?