Smectics
Smectics are a class of liquid crystal phases characterized by long-range orientational order and one-dimensional translational order that forms layered structures. They flow like liquids within the layers but possess a periodic density modulation perpendicular to the layers, giving them a layered, semi-crystalline character.
The molecules in smectic phases are typically elongated. In Smectic A, the molecular long axes align on
Physically, smectic phases exhibit elastic properties tied to their layering, including layer bending and compression, described
Smectics are encountered in various thermotropic liquid crystals and have been studied extensively in research. In