The equivalence of density and field variables for the pretransitional effect in the isotropic phase of nematogens

Abstract

The nonlinear dielectric effect (NDE) is described with reference to the concentrational, isothermal approach to the weakly discontinuous phase transition point from the isotropic to the nematic phase in MBBA (n-4-methoxybenzylidene-4-butylaniline)-benzene solution (nematogen-nonmesogenic component). It was ascertained that the dependence of the pretransitional effect as a function of benzene concentration (‘density’ variable) may be described, as with temperature or pressure (‘field’ variables) studies in pure MBBA, by the mean-field theory.

Key Words:

• Phase transition
• liquid crystals
• nonlinear dielectric effect