We have developed a set of differential equations which describe the hydrodynamics of a conducting liquid crystal subjected to external electromagnetic fields. The mechanical forces resulting from the interaction of the fields with the liquid are expressed as operations on the Maxwell stress tensor. The use of this description allows a concise statement of the equations of motion. As an example of the validity of the formalism, we rigorously solve the boundaryvalue problem associated with the Williams domain (vortex) mode in nematic liquids. Using standard constitutive relations, physical boundary conditions, and experimentally measured material p-azoxylanisole constants, we quantitatively reproduce the significant experimental observations.
scite is a Brooklyn-based organization that helps researchers better discover and understand research articles through Smart Citations–citations that display the context of the citation and describe whether the article provides supporting or contrasting evidence. scite is used by students and researchers from around the world and is funded in part by the National Science Foundation and the National Institute on Drug Abuse of the National Institutes of Health.