The phase transition from a nematic to smectic C liquid crystal is described by an infinite-dimensional order parameter. A Landau-Ginzburg-Wilson model appropriate for this transition is introduced and analysed by renormalisation group techniques. It is shown that for d>5 dimensions the model exhibits a continuous transition with Gaussian-like critical behaviour. However, for d=5- epsilon ( epsilon >0) dimensions the model does not possess a stable fixed point, indicating that a first-order transition occurs. This is consistent with results derived previously by Brazovskii (1975) and by Swift and Leitner (1977).
No takes yet. Share an insight, caveat, or question.
Mukamel et al. (1980) studied this question.
Synapse has enriched 5 closely related papers on similar clinical questions. Consider them for comparative context: