liquid crystals

What are liquid crystals?

Substances with properties between those of liquids and solids (mesophase).

Name two types of liquid crystals based on formation?

Thermotropic and Lyotropic.

What does "anisotropic" mean regarding liquid crystals?

Their properties vary with direction.

Which liquid crystal phase is organized in layers?

Smectic phase.

Which liquid crystal phase has molecules aligned but randomly positioned?

nematic phase

What are cholesteric liquid crystals known for?

Forming helical structures and reflecting visible light (colorful appearance).

What causes lyotropic liquid crystals to form?

Changes in concentration of amphiphilic molecules in solvent.

Which biological structure behaves like a lyotropic liquid crystal?

Cell membranes

Name two methods to detect liquid crystals?

Polarized Light Microscopy and Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC).

Why are liquid crystals important in pharmaceuticals?

Used for drug delivery systems and formulation stabilization.