Disinclination lines

The actual configuration around disinclination lines was calculated by Oseen for the case kn — 33, 12 = 0, the latter assumption actually being exact. Then if L is parallel to a plane and is the azimuth of L in this plane, in which xi, xz are Cartesian co-ordinates, the free energy is minimized in the absence of body torques when... 

To conclude the discussion of the Freedericksz transition, we note that for H > Hp (V > Vp) there are two equivalent tilt configurations of the directors, denoted by the solid and the dotted lines in Fig. 6. In practice, for H > Hp (or V > Vp) both tilt configurations are usually present, and regions of different tilt patterns are separated by visible disinclination lines. 

As remarked in chapter 1, the nematic state is named for the threads that can be seen within the fluid under a microscope (fig. 1.1.6(a)). In thin films sandwiched between glass plates these threads can be seen end on. A typical example of the texture in a plane film of thickness about 10 /tm between crossed polarizers - the structures a noyaux or schlieren textures - is given in fig. 1.1.6(6). The black brushes originating from the points are due to line singularities perpendicular to the layer. In analogy with dislocations in crystals, Frank proposed the term disinclinations , which has since been modified to disclinations in current usage. 

Bad news is usually unwelcome. As a result, people in possession of relevant warning information may be disinclined to pass it up the line to senior managers. 

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