3D smectic liquid crystals

Abstract: Liquid crystals are an intermediate state of matter which flow like liquids but retain molecular ordering similar to that of crystals. Their physical properties make them ideal for a wide range of technological applications. The molecules in smectic liquid crystals form well-defined layers which slide across one another; in fact, this is what gives soap its slippery feel. In this talk we will introduce a mathematical model for smectics based on the minimization of a suitable energy and present recent results obtained jointly with Xiaodong Yan. No prior knowledge of liquid crystals or the relevant mathematics will be assumed.

mathematical physicsanalysis of PDEsclassical analysis and ODEsfunctional analysisoptimization and control

Audience: researchers in the topic

VCU ALPS (Analysis, Logic, and Physics Seminar)

Series comments: Description: Research seminar on topics ranging from analysis and logic to mathematical physics.

Meetings will be conducted over Zoom:

Meeting ID: 951 0562 0974

The password is 10 characters, consisting of the name of the ancient Greek mathematician who wrote "Elements" (first letter capitalized) followed by the first 4 primes.