liquid crystal
Sign in to savestate of matter with properties of both conventional liquids and crystals
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A liquid crystal is a state of matter that combines properties of both liquids and crystals—it can flow like a liquid while maintaining some of the ordered molecular structure of a solid crystal. This unusual combination makes liquid crystals useful for applications like displays in televisions and computer screens, where their ability to control light is essential.
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Schlieren texture of liquid crystal nematic phase
Liquid crystal (LC) is a state of matter whose properties are between those of conventional liquids and those of solid crystals. For example, a liquid crystal can flow like a liquid, but its molecules may be oriented in a common direction as in a solid. There are many types of LC phases, which can be distinguished by their optical properties (such as textures). The contrasting textures arise due to molecules within one area of material ("domain") being oriented in the same direction but different areas having different orientations. An LC material may not always be in an LC state of matter (just as water may be ice or water vapour).