Nematic Liquid Crystal
by James Bell
Title
Nematic Liquid Crystal
Artist
James Bell
Medium
Photograph - Photograph
Description
Nematic liquid crystal. Polarized light micrograph of nematic liquid crystal. Although liquid crystal (LC) flows like a fluid, its molecular arrangement exhibits some order. Liquid crystals are used in liquid crystal displays (LCD), for example in calculators and digital watches. An LCD has a film of LC sandwiched between crossed polarizers and set on top of a mirror. In the off state light is able to traverse both polarizers, penetrate the LC and reflect back off the mirror. In the "on" state an electric field applied across the LC alters its molecular alignment and hence its polarizing properties; light cannot traverse both polarizers to reach the mirror and the display appears dark.
Uploaded
April 3rd, 2014
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